Article Text
Research Article
Screening for syphilis among homosexual men in bars and saunas in Amsterdam.
Abstract
Serological screening of 1627 homosexual men visiting two saunas and two bars in Amsterdam showed that 32.2% were seroreactive for syphilis. The 18-month study period ended in June 1981. Follow-up was possible in 91% (224/245) of subjects with both positive TPHA and VDRL test results; 76 cases of previously undetected syphilis were identified among 75 of the 224 men (incidence rate 4.6%). The rate of previously undetected syphilis declined appreciably during the study period. The cost of identifying one new case of syphilis was Df1577 (pounds 120 or US $ 220).