PCR Testing of Non-Genital Sites for Treponema pallidum

In an Amsterdam study involving men who have sex with men (MSM), extragenital sites were often positive for T. pallidum DNA (especially in subjects with secondary syphilis).

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for Treponema pallidum have been available world-wide for several years and are highly sensitive for detecting T. pallidum DNA (TP-DNA) in primary chancres and condyloma lata. Now, investigators have evaluated these assays using non-genital samples (i.e., from peripheral blood, urine, pharynx, and anus) in patients with early syphilis to see if such assays might improve diagnostic options and elucidate the mechanism of transmission.

Samples were collected from 293 MSM seen between November 2018 and December 2019 at an Amsterdam clinic for sexually transmitted infections. At least one sample tested positive in 35 of 70 participants with primary syphilis (50%), 62 of 73 with secondary syphilis (85%), and 2…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

PCR Testing of Non-Genital Sites for Treponema pallidum

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Reviewing Author