Screening High-Risk Populations for Syphilis

An updated U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guideline recommends screening “high-risk” patients, but defining high-risk in primary care might be a challenge.

Sponsoring Organization: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)

Target Audience: Primary care providers

Background

From a low of fewer than 4 incident cases of syphilis per 100,000 population in the year 2000, the syphilis incidence has now increased to more than 6 cases per 100,000 population. The USPSTF has updated their 2004 guidelines for syphilis screening in nonpregnant adolescents and adults based on an updated evidence report and systematic review.

Key Recommendations

The primary high-risk populations for syphilis are men who have sex with men (MSM) and men and women who are HIV positive.
Secondary higher-risk populations include:
- People who have been incarcerated.
- Sex workers.
- Members of certain racial groups, including blacks (incid…

Reviewing Author

Thomas L. Schwenk, MD

Disclosures

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