Red flags & when to go in person for Syphilis (Suspected) - Testing Pathway

Audience: adult

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if not treated. Early symptoms may include painless sores, rashes, or flu-like signs, but sometimes there are no symptoms at all. Testing for syphilis often involves blood tests and physical exams, which can sometimes be started through telemedicine. However, certain warning signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person promptly. These include severe symptoms like neurological problems, vision changes, or signs of widespread infection. Telemedicine can help with initial advice, symptom assessment, and arranging tests, but cannot replace in-person exams or treatments when complications arise. If you suspect you have syphilis or have been exposed, early testing and follow-up are important to prevent serious outcomes. This guide helps you understand when telemedicine is suitable and when to seek in-person care for suspected syphilis.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden severe headache, confusion, weakness, or numbness — seek emergency care immediately as this may indicate neurosyphilis.
• Vision changes, eye pain, or redness — urgent in-person eye exam needed to prevent permanent damage.
• High fever, widespread rash, or severe fatigue — may signal advanced infection requiring prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and risk discussion
• Providing information about syphilis and testing
• Referring for laboratory blood tests
• Explaining test results and treatment options
• Monitoring mild symptoms during treatment

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or collecting samples
• Diagnosing complications like neurosyphilis or ocular syphilis
• Administering injectable treatments
• Managing severe or emergency symptoms
• Providing prenatal care for pregnant individuals with syphilis

What is Syphilis and Why Testing Matters

Syphilis is an infection passed mainly through sexual contact. It can cause sores, rashes, and other symptoms. If untreated, it may lead to serious health issues affecting the brain, heart, and other organs. Testing helps find syphilis early so it can be treated effectively.

Common Symptoms of Syphilis

Symptoms vary by stage but often include:

Some people have no symptoms but can still spread the infection.

When to Use Telemedicine for Suspected Syphilis

Telemedicine can help you:

It is a convenient first step, especially if you cannot visit a clinic immediately.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

Certain signs mean you need urgent in-person evaluation:

These symptoms may indicate advanced disease needing prompt treatment.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your tele-visit:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your symptoms and when they began
• Note any recent sexual partners or exposures
• Prepare questions about testing and treatment
• Ensure privacy and good internet connection for the tele-visit
• Have identification and insurance information ready if applicable

After your tele-visit

• Follow instructions for any recommended laboratory tests
• Schedule in-person visits if advised by your provider
• Begin treatment promptly if diagnosed
• Monitor symptoms and report any worsening immediately
• Attend follow-up appointments to confirm cure

FAQs

Can syphilis be diagnosed through a telemedicine visit?

Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms and risk but cannot diagnose syphilis alone. Diagnosis usually requires blood tests and sometimes physical examination, which may need an in-person visit.

What should I do if I have a painless sore but no other symptoms?

A painless sore can be an early sign of syphilis. You should seek medical advice promptly, which may start with a telemedicine visit to arrange testing and care.

Is syphilis curable?

Yes, syphilis is typically curable with appropriate antibiotic treatment, especially when caught early. Completing the full course of treatment and follow-up testing is important.

Can I use telemedicine to get treatment for syphilis?

Telemedicine can guide you on treatment options, but syphilis treatment often requires injections or prescription antibiotics that may need to be administered in person.

Why is it important to get tested even if I have no symptoms?

Syphilis can be present without symptoms but still cause damage and spread to others. Testing helps detect infection early for timely treatment.

Sources

1. Syphilis - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
2. Syphilis - CDC Fact Sheet — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Syphilis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) — World Health Organization (WHO).

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine can assist with initial assessment and guidance but cannot replace in-person evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment when needed. If you experience any severe symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical attention.