[afro-nets] PCR screening for syphilis... (2)

[Elia John <eliajelia@yahoo.co.uk>]

PCR screening for syphilis... (2)
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Dear John,

I am really impressed by your article on PCR testing of whole
blood for syphilis. It's indeed a commendable development espe-
cially in the era of HIV/AIDS.

Syphilis is among the major cause of ulcerative STD in poor de-
veloped countries where few people seek treatment, access treat-
ment and few adhere to regimens.

The practice in most poor countries to screen people using VDRL
and those turning to be positive from this test are then sub-
jected to TPHA.

As VDRL is less sensitive leaving a lot of cases, these cases
never had the opportunity to be subjected to the TPHA. The ulti-
mate end results is leaving a lot of cases unrecognized and un-
treated. These cases transmit the infection further increasing
susceptibility and infectiousness to HIV infection.

What are your suggestions regarding the present testing strate-
gies/sequences practiced in those countries in this current si-
tuation where the HIV/AIDS is rampant in these very areas?

It's of no questions that the new PCR strategy will increase
case finding in those areas when available and if the cost will
be affordable to these countries, what do you think of its ap-
plicability?

Hoping to hear from you soon,

Elia John, MD
mailto:eliajelia@yahoo.co.uk