What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Syphilis (Suspected) - Testing Pathway

Audience: adult

If you have a telemedicine visit because syphilis is suspected, the doctor or healthcare provider will guide you through the next steps, mainly focusing on testing. Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can be treated effectively when caught early. After your visit, you will usually be advised to get blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may need to be done at a local clinic or laboratory. Sometimes, a physical exam or additional tests might be necessary if symptoms are present. Your healthcare provider will explain how to get tested and what to expect. If the tests show you have syphilis, treatment usually involves antibiotics, often given as an injection. Follow-up testing may be needed to ensure the infection is fully treated. It is important to notify recent sexual partners so they can also get tested and treated if needed. Remember, telemedicine can help start the process, but some steps require in-person visits. Always reach out promptly if you notice worsening symptoms or new health concerns.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe headache, neck stiffness, or confusion — seek emergency care immediately as these may signal neurosyphilis.
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing after treatment — get urgent medical attention.
• Signs of allergic reaction to antibiotics such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial consultation and symptom discussion
• Providing education about syphilis and testing
• Ordering laboratory tests for syphilis
• Explaining test results and treatment plans
• Guidance on notifying sexual partners

What telemedicine cannot do

• Administering injections or antibiotics
• Performing physical examinations or swab tests
• Managing severe or emergency symptoms
• Providing in-person follow-up testing
• Handling complications requiring urgent care

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine appointment, your healthcare provider will likely recommend blood tests to check for syphilis. These tests detect antibodies your body makes in response to the infection. You may need to visit a nearby clinic or lab to have your blood drawn. Sometimes, if you have sores or rashes, a swab test may be done. Your provider will explain how and where to get these tests done.

Understanding Syphilis Testing

Syphilis testing usually involves two types of blood tests: non-treponemal tests (like RPR or VDRL) and treponemal tests. The first test screens for infection, and if positive, the second confirms it. Test results may take a few days to a week. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results and explain what they mean.

Treatment and Follow-Up

If tests confirm syphilis, treatment typically involves an antibiotic injection, often penicillin. Early treatment can cure the infection and prevent serious complications. You may need follow-up blood tests over several months to ensure the infection is fully cleared. Your provider will guide you on when and where to have these follow-ups.

Notifying Sexual Partners

Syphilis can spread through sexual contact. It is important to inform recent sexual partners so they can get tested and treated if necessary. This helps prevent reinfection and protects others. Your healthcare provider can offer advice on how to communicate with partners.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some symptoms or situations require urgent in-person care. If you develop severe headaches, vision changes, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or signs of a severe allergic reaction to treatment, seek emergency care immediately. Also, if you have concerns about your symptoms or test results, an in-person visit may be necessary.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your symptoms ready to discuss
• Prepare information about your sexual history and partners
• Make a note of any allergies, especially to antibiotics
• Have your identification and insurance information available if needed
• Ensure you have a quiet, private space for your tele-visit
• Be ready to write down instructions for testing and follow-up

After your tele-visit

• Visit a local laboratory or clinic for recommended blood tests
• Follow instructions for any additional tests if needed
• Start antibiotic treatment promptly if prescribed
• Notify recent sexual partners about potential exposure
• Attend follow-up appointments or testing as advised
• Monitor for any worsening symptoms and seek care if needed

FAQs

How soon will I get my syphilis test results?

Test results typically take a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results and explain what they mean.

Can syphilis be cured?

Yes, syphilis can usually be cured with the right antibiotics, especially when treatment starts early. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.

Do I need to tell my sexual partners if I have syphilis?

Yes, it is important to inform recent sexual partners so they can get tested and treated if needed. This helps prevent reinfection and protects others.

What if I have symptoms but my test is negative?

Sometimes tests may be negative early in infection. Your healthcare provider may recommend repeat testing or further evaluation if symptoms continue.

Is it safe to have a telemedicine visit for suspected syphilis?

Telemedicine is safe for initial consultation, education, and ordering tests. However, some steps like testing and treatment require in-person visits.

Sources

1. Syphilis - MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Syphilis - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
3. Syphilis - Mayo Clinic — Mayo Clinic.
4. Syphilis - Merck Manuals Consumer Version — Merck & Co., Inc..

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional.