Comparison of methods for the detection of treponema pallidum in lesions of early syphilis

Sex Transm Dis. 1996 Sep-Oct;23(5):366-9. doi: 10.1097/00007435-199609000-00004.

Abstract

Background: The clinical diagnosis of primary and secondary syphilis can be difficult because of the wide variability of lesions. The available laboratory tests (dark-field microscopy and direct fluorescent antibody) require specialized microscopes and skilled technicians, and serologic tests are insensitive in early infection.

Methods: Dark-field microscopy and monoclonal antibody staining were compared to a new solid-phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Visuwell test) for detection of T. pallidum in lesion exudate of 188 patients with genital lesions.

Results: Sixty-four patients (34%) had lesions of early syphilis diagnosed by either dark-field, monoclonal antibody staining, or both. The Visuwell test and dark-field examination were positive in 52 (81.3%) and 55 (85.9%) of the 64 patients, respectively, whereas the monoclonal antibody staining technique demonstrated the presence of T. pallidum in 59 (92.2%) of the 64 patients. The Visuwell test gave a negative result in 111 of 124 patients who had negative dark-field and direct fluorescent antibody test results (89.5% specificity).

Conclusions: The Visuwell test is an alternative method for evaluating genital ulcers but is less sensitive and specific than existing tests.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay / methods*
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Direct / methods
  • Humans
  • Microscopy / methods
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Syphilis, Cutaneous / diagnosis*
  • Syphilis, Cutaneous / microbiology*
  • Time Factors