Home Syphilis Test
Syphilis is a type of infection caused by the bacteria Treponema Palladium. This is usually transferred through sexual contact. It can also be transferred by intravenous drug use, where drugs are injected directly into the vein, or by blood transfusion. This infection can be very dangerous and sometimes even fatal if not treated properly, leading to serious damage to the heart, nervous system, eyes or even the brain. The symptoms in the early stages characterized by the appearance of one or more infectious sores on the skin called chancres. If this initial symptom is ignored these chancres can lead to skin rashes, sore throats, headaches and exhaustion. Although often overlooked, falling prey to syphilis can also increase your chance of getting HIV. There are various tests that are conducted to diagnose the existence of the syphilis bacteria, out of which the most common one is the syphilis home test. Specific ready-to-use syphilis home test kits are readily available at any pharmacy store. This test is a very specific home test kit that is often recommended by doctors because of its high levels of accuracy.
Reasons for Syphilis Test
This test is carried out to diagnose the infection with Treponema Palladium. The kit comes with supplies that are used to collect samples of blood, a reagent developer to bring about specific reactions leading to the results and a color band signal with a built-in test control to give results of the tests that are conducted.
Preparation for Syphilis Test
There are no specific preparations required for this test; however, a blood sample would be required to diagnose the infection. It is recommended that a registered medical device be used for collection of blood. Once the collection is done, you must ensure that the blood and the regeant developer are mixed properly.
Procedure to Conduct Syphilis Test
The process is very similar to that of a DNA test. A specimen of blood or serum is taken, either in a container or a blood plate and mixed with the regeant developer. After this the color band signal is dipped in the sample, left for 10 minutes and removed to take note of the results. The results would include two lines, a control line and a test line. A colored control line (C) is an indication that the test is complete and has been carried out properly. Whereas, a colored test line (T) is an indication that the test is positive. Once the test result is declared positive, it is recommended that you send the blood sample to a certified laboratory and visit your personal doctor immediately.