Anonymous Syphilis Testing

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Overview

Caused by the bacteria known as Treponema Pallidum, Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) once thought to have been almost eradicated in the 1940’s and 50’s after the discovery of penicillin. In the past few decades, there has been a steady rise in rates of infection, especially in men who have sex with men, sex with commercial sex workers, and as a co-infection with HIV. The disease is mostly spread through penetrative sex (vaginal or anal) and oral sex. However, syphilis can potentially transmit through any other direct contact with an infected sore.

The Different Stages

Syphilis can be considered to have three main ‘active’ stages: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary syphilis. During these active stages, symptoms such as an ulcer or chancre at the site of infection, body rashes, swollen glands, etc. may be present. In between these stages, the infection can be completely asymptomatic and be ‘latent’. The latent stage can last for months to years, or even decades. This is especially true after the secondary stage has passed. This is why syphilis should always be considered when doing a routine sexual health screen, even if someone feels perfectly well.

Syphilis is also known as The Great Imitator, as there are many symptoms which can mimic other more common conditions, possibly causing the diagnosis to be initially missed. For example, while the classical chancre in primary syphilis is usually solitary and painless, there are also cases of multiple painful sores which turn out to be syphilis. Rashes in secondary syphilis are typically spread evenly around the body and typically include lesions over the palms and soles. However, we sometimes see localized rashes over the scalp, trunk or limbs alone without any lesions on the hands or feet.

Anonymous Syphilis Testing

Screening can dependably detect syphilis, even if it is asymptomatic. A simple blood test is usually run for either treponemal antibodies (TPAb/TPPA) or non-treponemal antibody tests (RPR/VDRL). Even if someone is asymptomatic, there is still a risk that the infection can be spread.

Rapid point-of-care testing is also now available and will check for TPAb/TPPA antibodies. Testing only requires a finger prick blood sample, with results ready in 15-20 minutes. This test can be performed anonymously, along with other rapid STI tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Anonymous testing means no personal identifiers are required from the patient, and positive results do not need to be notified by name. Anonymous screening can reduce stigmatization of STI testing and improve accessibility to those who may not otherwise test. This means that infections may be picked up and treated at an earlier stage, helping to reduce the risk of ongoing transmission in the community.

Getting Tested

If you think you need an anonymous syphilis test, please reach out to our DTAP clinics for a confidential, and professional diagnosis.

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Anonymous Rapid Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea Test

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According to both the US CDC and statistics in Singapore, Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea are the top 2 STIs. Left untreated, these diseases can cause serious long-term consequences like infertility and complications during pregnancy which affect unborn children.

Using real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction) technology, which means that the test is able to detect the DNA of both Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea in real-time, we can now get accurate and quick diagnosis of these 2 STIs.

The test is up to 99% accurate.

DTAP clinics now offer this rapid test, with results are available by the next working day. All that is required are samples from either urine, endocervical, throat or anus, depending on where the infection is likely to be present. This will be determined by your doctor after the assessment. The diagnostic rapidity will facilitate prompt and appropriate treatment.

Getting tested for STIs can be daunting, with plenty of social stigma attached to it. We understand your need for confidentiality, which is why DTAP clinic now offers anonymous Chlamydia and Gonorrhea that uses real-time PCR technology.

FAQ

What does an anonymous rapid chlamydia and gonorrhoea PCR test mean?

DTAP now offers anonymous chlamydia and gonorrhoea PCR tests for those who think they may be at risk of getting infected, thereby removing fear of identification.

Practically, this means is that all you need to give us is your mobile number when you want to do an anonymous chlamydia and gonorrhoea test. For the purposes of this test, you are no longer identified by your identity card or passport number. A short questionnaire will be given to you to fill up, which will not ask for any identifiable information like your name, identity number or address. The short questionnaire will help us understand your risks so that the doctors can give you the appropriate advice.

A mobile number is required so that we can contact you about your results. You will be listed in our computer system as a random number with no identifiable information attached to it.

How do I know I need to be tested?

You will need to be tested:

• If you possess symptoms suggesting you may have been infected with Chlamydia (link to article on symptoms of Chlamydia) or Gonorrhoea (link to article on gonorrhoea)
• If your partner was tested positive for either one of those infections
• If you had a recent change in partner
• If you have multiple sex partners
• If you recently had unprotected sex

How long does it take for the results to be available?

Generally, results will be available next working day.

How accurate is the test?

In general, the test can be up to 99% accurate.

Which areas of the body can the test be used for?

Urine, endocervical, throat and anus

Do I need to prepare anything for the test?

For urine samples, it is best if you avoid passing urine 2 hours before the test. Otherwise, no additional preparation needs to be done before the test.

Is it painful?

There are no needles involved.

If you think that you may have been exposed to these 2 STIs, or if you have symptoms like penile/ vaginal discharges, burning sensations, and/or discomfort when you pass urine, you should get tested anonymously. Please visit our DTAP clinic and consult with our doctors to get tested with the Anonymous Rapid Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea test and get treated.

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Risk of HIV Transmission Through Blowjob

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A recent news report by Channel News Asia titled “HIV-positive man who donated blood during pandemic faces charge of lying about sexual history” may have caused some concern in the community with regards to the issue transmissibility of HIV through oral sex.

Based on the report, people may wonder just how transmissible is HIV via oral sex and how does it compare to other forms of sexual practices like vaginal sex.

Sexual Practice and HIV Transmission Risk

Based on the Department of STI Control Clinic in Singapore, the table below summarizes the risk of transmission of HIV based on the type of sexual practice.

Sexual Practice Estimated risk of HIV transmission from a known HIV-positive individual not on effective HIV treatment

 
Receptive vaginal sex 10 per 10,000 persons
Insertive vaginal sex About 8 per 10,0000 persons
Performing oral sex < 1 per 10,000 persons
Receiving oral sex < 1 per 10,000 persons

 

Can HIV be transmitted via oral sex yes, but the risk is roughly 10x less likely than vaginal sex.

 

So when is there no risk of HIV transmission?

  • Breathing the same air as someone.
  • Touching a toilet seat or door knob.
  • Drinking from a water fountain.
  • Hugging, kissing or shaking hands (although kissing may transfer fluids the level of virus in saliva is so low as to make the risk negligible).
  • Sharing food or utensils.
  • Sharing gym equipment.
  • Skin to skin contact with an HIV positive person even if they happen to have fluid of unknown origin on them (particularly applies to commercial sex workers).
  • Biting or scratching that does not break the skin or draw blood

 

How can we reduce risk of HIV transmission?

  • Monogomous relationship
  • Avoid casual sex or paid sex
  • Always use condoms
  • Regular testing if you are at risk – protect yourself and your loved ones

 

There are no way to know your HIV states unless you go for a HIV Test.

 

 

 

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How to Test for Oral STDs

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It is a common misconception amongst both men and women that oral sex (i.e. fellatio, cunnilingus, and analingus) is completely risk-free when it comes to infections. While oral intercourse is often thought to be a safer option compared to penetrative intercourse or conventional sex, the reality is that a variety of STDs can still be transmitted through direct contact with the mouth, lips, tongue or throat.

As such, it is important to monitor for symptoms of these infections as well as proactively test if there is a potential exposure risk, especially as a large proportion of these infections can be asymptomatic, or have symptoms that develop much later.

The most common infections transmissible through oral sex are Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and Syphilis. In this article, we will be outlining some of the common symptoms seen with these infections as well as how they can be tested.

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea

These are two of the most common STDs seen globally, and are caused by the bacteria Chlamydia Trachomatis and Neisseria Gonorrhea respectively. They will usually infect the genital region, urinary tract, anus, and oral cavity, although other sites of infection have been noted as well. While symptoms such as sore throat and throat discharge may be present in some individuals, up to 70-80% of throat infections with chlamydia and gonorrhea may be asymptomatic and a large portion will remain undiagnosed and untreated.

The most accurate method of testing for throat chlamydia and gonorrhea infections will be with Polymerase Chain Reaction, or PCR testing – this looks for specific genetic sequences from the DNA of these bacteria. Standard bacterial cultures are usually insufficient to pick up these infections.

Herpes Simplex Virus

There are two main types of HSV infection. Type 1 HSV is more commonly seen, and can be spread through both oral-to-oral transmission such as kissing, as well as oral-to-genital transmission. Type 2 HSV is more typically seen through genital-to-genital transmission, although it can also be spread to the mouth, tongue, and throat through oral sex. These viral infections can cause outbreaks of painful ulcers or cold sores at the site of transmission, and infection is carried lifelong. There is risk of transmission of these infections even without symptoms.

Testing for herpes infections can be performed either with blood serology testing or via PCR testing if there are symptomatic lesions. Serology or antibody testing will only be able to detect possible past exposure 1-3 months after transmission, and is not useful to detect new or acute infections.

Human Papillomavirus

HPV infections are one of the most common prevalent STDs worldwide. There are many subtypes of HPV, usually divided into low-risk and high-risk categories. Low-risk types include type 6 and 11, which are responsible for about 90% of genital warts or papillomas – these are benign, cauliflower-like growths on the skin and mucous membranes that can develop weeks to months after initial transmission. High-risk types include type 16, 18, 31, 33, 45 etc. and are more related to cancer risk, including cancers of the cervix, anus, penis, and mouth/throat. It is estimated that approximately 20,000 HPV-associated oral cancers are diagnosed per year in the US alone.

Warts from HPV are usually diagnosed clinically and do not require any specific testing; however, high-risk HPV infections are usually asymptomatic and would require PCR testing to be detected. Guidelines currently recommend women over the age of 30 to do regular HPV PCR testing together with their pap smears, and for men who have receptive anal sex to screen for rectal HPV if they are HIV positive. While oral HPV testing can be performed with the same type of test, there are no specific recommendations to do so, with the costs and benefits of the test to be determined by the individual and their doctor. HPV infections can be prevented with the HPV vaccine, which is now available for both males and females 9 years of age and older.

Syphilis

Syphilis infection is caused by the bacterium Treponema Pallidum. While incidence of syphilis had initially decreased with the availability of penicillin treatment in the 1940’s, rates of infection have been rising steadily for the past two decades, and it is commonly seen as a co-infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Syphilis infection can be spread through direct contact to mucous membranes and compromised skin from an infected sore or chancre, usually at the genital region, anus, and mouth; it is estimated that around 20% of syphilis infections are transmitted through oral sex alone. Symptoms will depend on stage of infection at presentation, and can include sores or ulcers in primary syphilis, and a diffuse rash in secondary syphilis. Many cases are not detected when symptomatic and may be considered in the latent stage when screened on blood testing, or may even reach the tertiary stage many years after initial infection – this can cause complications with the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular system), or with the central nervous system (neurosyphilis).

Syphilis testing is mostly performed with serological tests, which look for certain antibodies in the blood that can be detected 2-5 weeks after infection. Other forms of testing include dark-field microscopy, direct fluorescent antibody, and PCR testing; however, these are rarely performed in the clinical setting due to cost and availability of equipment and experienced lab personnel.

 

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Common STD Incubation Periods

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STD Incubation Period. The incubation period for the various STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) is a common question asked by patients in our clinics. It refers to the time between acquiring the infection and the presentation of symptoms. This is different from the window period, which refers to the period after infection in which no current available tests are sensitive enough to detect the infection. The window period for the various STIs depends on which tests are used. 

As different STIs have different incubation periods, it is not easy to answer the question when symptoms will appear after a particular risky exposure. I will list below the common STIs tested for, their incubation and window period as well as possible initial presentation. 

The following are the Common STDs and their incubating periods:

#1 STD Incubation Period – Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Early HIV infection refers to approximately 6 months after initial acquisition. It is estimated that 10 to 60 percent of all early HIV infections are asymptomatic, or without any symptoms. For early symptomatic HIV infection, the usual incubation period is around 2 to 4 weeks, although incubation periods as long as 10 months have been observed.

Acute symptomatic HIV infection present with a collection of signs and symptoms known as Acute Retroviral Syndrome (ARS). The most common findings for ARS are fever, sore throat, rash, swollen lymph nodes, body aches and pains. However, all these symptoms are not specific to acute HIV infection, hence please do not panic if you observe these symptoms after a risky encounter. See your doctor for further advice and testing

The Window period for HIV testing depends on the test that is conducted. The initially 10 days after exposure is known as the eclipse period, for which there are no tests that can pick up any infection. The earliest tests that can be done with conclusive results are the HIV ProViral DNA test or the HIV RNA PCR test, which can pick up possible acute infections 10 days after exposure.

4th Generation HIV tests will be conclusive around 28 days after exposure, while 3rd Generation HIV tests will be conclusive around 90 days after exposure. 

Anonymous HIV Testing is available at our Robertson Walk Branch. HIV Test results in 20 mins.

#2 STD Incubation Period – Syphilis

Approximately 50% of patients diagnosed with syphilis do not have any symptoms. This is because syphilis has 3 stages of infection: Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Syphilis and Primary and Secondary syphilis might have symptoms that are so mild that they are ignored by the patient.

Primary syphilis presents with a painless ulcer on the genitalia, known as a chancre. The incubation period for a chancre appears to range from 3 to 90 days, with an average of around 21 days. The chancre will heal within 3 to 6 weeks even without treatment. Within weeks to a few months after the chancre appears, around 25 percent of untreated individuals will develop Secondary Syphilis.

Secondary Syphilis can present with a widespread rash, ulcers, patchy hair loss, swollen lymph nodes, weight loss and fatigue. The infection subsequently goes into a latent phase lasting for years for which there are no signs or symptoms. This is the reason why the majority of syphilis picked up on routine screening are asymptomatic.

Neurosyphilis occurs when the infection reaches the central nervous system i.e. the brain or spinal cord. Neurosyphilis can occur at any stage of infection, but tends to occur in tertiary syphilis. Therefore, neurosyphilis can occur within a few months, but could also develop after 10 to 30 years, of a syphilis infection. 

The window period for syphilis testing depends on the stage of syphilis infection. The blood tests (FTA-ABS and TPPA) will be positive around 1 to 2 weeks after chancre formation. 

#3 STD Incubation Period – Hepatitis B and C

The majority of hepatitis B and C infection are asymptomatic. It has been estimated that around 30 percent of acute hepatitis B infection and less than 25 percent of acute hepatitis C infection are symptomatic. Symptoms of acute infection tend to be very mild and may include the following: Fever, Fatigue, Nausea/vomiting, Dark Urine, Pale stools and abdominal pain. 

The incubation for acute hepatitis B infection is estimated to be around 1 month to 4 month, while the incubation period for acute hepatitis C infection is estimated to be from 2 weeks to 3 months.

The window period for both hepatitis B and C testing for antibodies is on the average about a month. It will be much shorter if alternate tests such as the Hepatitis C RNA PCR test for Hepatitis B Viral Load are used instead.

#4 STD Incubation Period – Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is caused by both Herpes Simplex Virus 1 or 2 (HSV1/2). Genital herpes infections often do not have symptoms or mild symptoms that go unrecognized. It is estimated that one third of patients with new infections do not have symptoms. The initial presentation of symptoms range from severe with painful genitalia ulcers, painful urination, painful lymph node swellings and fever. However, patients also can have mild or no symptoms as well. The initial presentation does not depends on the type of virus (HSV1 vs HSV2)

The incubation period for genital herpes is around 4 days, with a range from 2 days to 12 days.

For asymptomatic infections, HSV 1/2 Antibodies will start appearing in the serum starting from 3 weeks and majority of patients would have antibodies by 16 weeks. The window period for testing for asymptomatic patients is hence from 3 weeks to 16 weeks. For patients with symptoms of the painful genital ulcers, the test of choice is Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) for which a swab of the ulcer is taken and tested for HSV DNA. There is no window period for NAAT.

Rapid Herpes Testing with Next Day Results is available in all DTAP Clinic in Singapore.

#5 STD Incubation Period – Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea causes different symptoms for men and women. For women, the cervix is the most common site of infection and the common symptoms are vaginal itch and discharge. Some women also have heavier periods or bleeding in-between periods. If the infection has ascended beyond the cervix into the uterus, this is a potentially more dangerous condition known as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) for which abdomen pain and fever are common symptoms. Up to 70 percent of patients with cervical gonorrhea infection are asymptomatic. 

For men, urethritis is the most common presentation of gonorrhea infections. It is characterised by purulent urethral discharge and painful urination. In contrast to infections in women, the majority of infections in men are symptomatic. 

In women, the incubation period for genital infection is around 10 days. In men, the incubation period for symptomatic infected men is around 2 to 5 days, with 90 percent of these individuals with symptoms of urethritis by 2 weeks.  

The accepted standard for testing for gonorrhea infection is NAAT, a urine sample for men and a cervical swab for women. As NAAT is able to detect low numbers of organisms with good accuracy, there is no window period for NAAT testing.

Rapid Gonorrhea & Chlamydia Testing with Next Day Results is available in all DTAP Clinic in Singapore.

#6 STD Incubation Period – Chlamydia

Chlamydia causes similar symptoms as gonorrhea in both men and women. In women, the cervix is also the most common site of infection with a proportion of patients having a urethra infection as well. However the majority of infected women, around 85 percent of patients are asymptomatic with neither signs or symptoms.

Symptoms of chlamydia infection are similar to gonorrhea in men as well, with a clear to mucoid penile discharge and painful urination. The proportion of asymptomatic infection varies as well in men, ranging from 40 to 96 percent with no symptoms. 

The incubation period for symptomatic infection ranges from 5 to 14 days after exposure for both men and women.

The gold testing for testing for chlamydia infection is NAAT as well. There is no window period for NAAT testing.

Rapid Gonorrhea & Chlamydia Testing with Next Day Results is available in all DTAP Clinic in Singapore.

  Asymptomatic/Mild Infections (%) Incubation Period Sample Types Window Period
HIV 10 to 60 2 to 4 weeks Blood Proviral DNA : 10 days
RNA PCR : 12 days
4th Generation Ag/Ab :28 days
3rd Generation Ag : 90 days
Syphilis 50 3 to 90 days
Average 21 days		 Blood FTA-ABS : 1 to 2 weeks after chancre
Hepatitis B Majority Asymptomatic 1 month to 4 month Blood HbsAg : 1 month
Hepatitis C Majority Asymptomatic 2 weeks to 3 month Blood Anti-HCV Ab : 1 month
Herpes 70 2 to 12 days
Average 4 days		 Blood/
Swab		 HSV 1/2 IgG : 3 to 16 weeks
HSV DNA PCR : No window period
Gonorrhea Women: 70
Men: Majority Symptomatic		 Women:10 days
Men: 2 to 5 days		 Swab/
Urine		 Gonorrhea DNA PCR: No window period
Chlamydia Majority Asymptomatic 5 to 14 days Swab/
Urine		 Chlamydia DNA PCR: No window period

If you like to speak to our doctors on your STD concern, please visit any of our clinics in Singapore & Malaysia.

You can also email us at hello@dtapclinic.com.sg, or call any of our clinics for an appointment

Also on this site: HIV Screening, HIV Test Clinic Singapore, STD Clinic Singapore

 
 
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Neurosyphillis

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Syphilis is a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Treponema Pallidum. It is a systemic infection with a multitude of signs and symptoms depending on the stage of the infection. As such, syphilis is also known as “the Great Imitator” because the clinical presentation may appear similar to many other diseases.

There are four stages of infection: 

  1. Primary syphilis – painless ulcer (or chancre) at the site of infection
  2. Secondary syphilis – manifestations that include, but are not limited to, skin rash, mucocutaneous lesions, and lymph node swelling
  3. Latent syphilis – this stage can last for a number of years with few or no symptoms
  4. Tertiary syphilis  – gummatous lesions (soft, non-cancerous growths), neurological problems, or cardiac symptoms

In this article, we will focus on neurosyphilis. You can learn more about syphilis as an overall topic in a previous article:

What is Neurosyphilis?

Neurosyphilis occurs when the infection reaches the central nervous system i.e. the brain or spinal cord. Neurosyphilis can occur at any stage of infection, but tends to occur in tertiary syphilis. Therefore, neurosyphilis can occur within a few months, but could also develop after 10 to 30 years, of a syphilis infection. 

There are four different forms of neurosyphilis:

  1. Asymptomatic (most common form)
  2. Meningovascular
  3. General paresis (muscle weakness)
  4. Tabes dorsalis (slow degeneration of the neural tracts of the spinal cord)

Asymptomatic neurosyphilis occurs before symptomatic neurosyphilis. Early neurosyphilis affects the blood vessels and meninges (membranous coverings of the brain and spinal cord) whereas late neurosyphilis affects the brain and spinal cord itself.

Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms vary widely depending on the form of neurosyphilis, including:

  • Stroke
  • Changes in personality
  • Dementia, mania, or paranoia 
  • Ataxia (loss of coordination of muscle movements, eg. leading to gait abnormality)
  • Ophthalmic symptoms (eg. blurred vision, reduced color perception)
  • Urinary symptoms (eg. bladder incontinence)
  • Headache
  • Giddiness
  • Hearing loss
  • Seizures 
  • Hyporeflexia 
  • Sensory impairment 

Risk Factors

The risk factors include: 

  • High risk sexual behaviour from unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners
  • Men who have sex with men
  • Recreational drug use

Diagnosis

Syphilis is diagnosed either via blood tests or direct visual inspection using dark field microscopy. In practice, blood tests are more commonly used as they are easier to perform.

To diagnose neurosyphilis specifically, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is a fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, is obtained via lumbar puncture and the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test is performed on the CSF. 

Other laboratory investigations that may be performed include: cerebral angiogram, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain, brain stem or spinal cord.

Treatment

Syphilis is treated with intramuscular injection of the antibiotic benzathine benzylpenicillin. Early syphilis is treated with a single dose whereas late syphilis is treated with a once-weekly dose for 3 weeks. 

For neurosyphilis, however, the treatment course is different as penicillin penetrates the central nervous system poorly. Instead, the treatment requires intravenous penicillin every 4 hours for 10 to 14 days.

Generally, follow-up blood tests are performed at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months to ensure the infection has fully resolved. Follow-up lumbar punctures for CSF analysis are performed every 6 months. 

Prevention

Neurosyphilis can be prevented with the following measures:

  • Safe sex practice, namely correct and consistent condom usage
  • Avoiding high risk sexual behaviour. Aside from abstaining from sexual contact, the surest way of avoiding STIs is to be in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is free of STIs
  • Regular STI screening and if syphilis has been detected, to receive early and prompt treatment
  • In the case of an individual diagnosed with a syphilis infection, prompt partner notification and treatment helps to reduce the risk of undetected syphilis

 

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Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV )

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What is Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)?

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is an uncommon sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by Chlamydia trachomatis.  It is rare in industrialized countries. LGV is more commonly seen in third-world countries, including certain areas of Africa, Southeast Asia, India, the Caribbean, and South America.

However, in recent times, more cases of LGV have been noted in first-world countries.

What is Chlamydia VS Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)?

Chlamydia trachomatis is the name of the bacteria that causes Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV).  LGV refers to clinical disease.

Not all subtypes of Chlamydia cause LGV. Of the 15 known clinical serotypes, only the L1, L2, and L3 serotypes cause LGV.

These serotypes are more virulent and invasive compared to other chlamydial serotypes.

What are the signs and symptoms of LGV?

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) occurs in 3 stages:

First Stage of LGV

In the first stage, LGV presents with self-limited genital ulcers which may appear anywhere from 3 days to 1 month after exposure. This may be small and/or painless and may be missed by the patient. It may even look like a herpes infection.

Also See: Syphilis Symptoms – Painless Sore & Rashes

The Second stage of LGV

In the second stage, the patient usually presents with painful lymph node swelling in the inguinal and/or femoral groups of lymph nodes, usually appearing 2-6 weeks after exposure.

Other groups of lymph nodes may be involved as well, such as the armpit or neck lymph nodes. Painful, swollen lymph nodes may coalesce (join together) to form buboes, which may rupture in as many as one-third of patients.

Those that do not rupture harden, then slowly resolve. The second stage may be associated with back pain, joint pain, inflamed eyes, cardiac inflammation, lung inflammation or liver inflammation if the bacteria disseminate from the local area of infection.

Last Stage of LGV

In the last stage, patients with LGV may present with rectal ulcerations and symptoms of inflammation of the rectum which include bloody purulent anal discharge, rectal pain and the feeling of incomplete evacuation after passing stools.

This is more common in patients participating in receptive anal intercourse.

This may occur many months or even years after the initial infection. This can cause lasting damage to infected tissue and general health.

Scarring, swelling and deformity in infected areas have also been reported. It may affect your gut as well, resulting in significant morbidity.

Having genital sores, cold sores or cauliflower-like warts around your genital area?
These are signs and symptoms caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus and Human papillomavirus (HPV).
Not all STDs will display signs and symptoms. Other typical signs & STD symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are as followed.
Read: STD Symptoms of Different STDs

Is LGV Associated with Other Subtypes of Genital Ulcer Diseases such as Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2), Syphilis, and Chancroid?

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is one of the causes of genital ulcer diseases that includes other STDs, such as Herpes Simplex Virus 2, Syphilis, and Chancroid. Any other form of STDs increases your risk of contracting another STD, including LGV.

How is Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) Transmitted?

LGV is almost exclusively transmitted through sexual contact.

Infection occurs after direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected partner. The organism does not penetrate intact skin.

The organism then travels by lymphatics to nearby lymph nodes, where it replicates within a type of white blood cell known as macrophages and causes systemic disease.

Can Sharing of Sex Toys Transmit Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)?

As long as the Chlamydia bacteria is present on the surface of the sex toy, and was introduced to the anogenital mucous membranes on the anus, vagina or penis, the infection can be spread.

It is thus important to make sure that sex toys are clean. It is also important to keep your sex toys clean.

How about Rectal Douching or Vaginal Douching?

Rectal and vaginal douching does not cause LGV, as if the surfaces of the douching tool is clean, there will not be the Chlamydia bacteria.

Having said that, most doctors do not recommend vaginal douching for ladies, as it may affect the normal flora of the vaginal cavity.

How Do I Test for Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)?

Laboratory diagnosis ultimately depends on detecting Chlamydia in the lesions/ulcers.

We can do a swab test of any lesions and do a urine test to see if Chlamydia is present or not.

What are the treatments for Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)?

LGV can be treated with antibiotics. However, a longer course has to be given (3 weeks). Your doctor will choose the appropriate antibiotic for you.

Sex partners who have had contact with the patient within the past 60 days should be evaluated and treated if symptomatic. If no symptoms are present, they should be treated for exposure, usually with shorter courses of antibiotics.

It is possible to be re-infected with LGV again after being successfully treated. Make sure all of your sexual partners have also been treated.

Is LGV more prevalent in MSM? How about other groups (Heterosexual & WSW)?

LGV has been postulated to probably affect both sexes equally, although it is more commonly reported in men. This could be because early signs and symptoms of LGV are more apparent in men and are therefore might be diagnosed more readily. Men typically present with the acute form of the disease, whereas women often present later.

Most cases in Europe and North America have been identified among white, frequently HIV-positive Men-Who-Have-Sex-with-Men (MSM) patients presenting with proctitis.

What are other STDs prevalent in Men Who Have Sex with Men?

Receptive anal sex carries the highest risk of contraction of all forms of STDs. STDs, in general, can affect everyone regardless of gender, age or sexual preference. If you are involved in sexual activity and have been exposed to an STD, you can contract it.


It is therefore important for you to get regularly tested for all STDs as long as there has been a new sexual encounter.

The best way to reduce the contraction of an STD from a sexual exposure is to use a condom. The proper usage of a condom (right size and fit) is equally important.

If you have experienced the above symptoms and wish to speak to a doctor, please visit us at our clinics. Alternately,  call us or email us for an appointment.

Learn More about Other STDs & Other STD Symptoms

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6 Common Causes of Penile Discolouration

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Most men tend to not pay regular attention to their general skin condition, but when it comes to matters of the penis, it is almost always a cause for immediate concern; after all, it is the source of our manhood. More often than not, any unusual appearance such as discolouration, dry skin, red spots or bumps may result in considerable anxiety.

It is not uncommon for men, especially those with darker skin, to have slight variations in the colour of the penis. In fact, for men of all races, it is normal for the penis to be slightly darker than the skin on the rest of the body. This applies also to the labia of women.

When an adolescent male or female undergoes puberty, the body produces the sex hormones, testosterone and oestrogen, which results in the development of secondary sexual characteristics. Excess levels of these hormones in the genitals respond to melanocytes, the skin cells that cause pigmentation. These physiological changes are responsible for darker genitalia in both men and women.

Mild penile discolouration is generally nothing to worry about. In fact, during sexual arousal, the penis can take on a reddish, sometimes almost purplish colour, due to increased blood flow to the organ. However, there are other causes of penile discolouration that may be more severe and require treatment.

 

6 Common Causes of Penile Discolouration

1. Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a skin reaction to contact with an irritant. This can happen anywhere on the body, including the penis. When this happens, it is usually caused by latex condom usage. The skin of the penis can turn red and itchy. Sometimes the skin can break causing serous discharge, and bacterial infection can occur. Mild cases can be treated with a corticosteroid cream. Non-latex condoms can be used if you have a latex allergy.

 

2. Penile Injury

A penile injury can lead to rapid discolouration due to bruising, in the form of purple, dark brown or even greenish hues. Sometimes, a red patch with prominent blood vessels just under the surface of the skin can occur due to a hematoma. This usually fades after several days and treatment is typically not necessary.

However, if there is severe pain along with the discolouration after a traumatic episode, immediate medical attention is required as this could be due to a penile fracture, which is a more severe issue.

 

3. Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is a lifelong condition that can go through periods of remission and flare-ups, and is characterised by white patches on the penis. It is more common in those who are uncircumcised. In addition to blotchy white spots, the skin of the penis can also become itchy, fragile and tear or bleed easily. Other symptoms include painful sex and an inability to retract the foreskin fully.

The cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown, but an overactive immune system or an imbalance of hormones may play a role. It is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through sexual intercourse. Treatment usually includes a strong steroid ointment applied directly to the affected skin. If only the foreskin is affected, circumcision may be advised.

 

4. Penile Melanosis or Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Penile melanosis, or PIH, is a benign condition simply caused by overproduction of melanin, in which the skin can appear in a wide variety of colors including different shades of brown, grey or even blue.

Overproduction usually occurs after an injury to the skin of the penis, the most common being excessive rubbing of the penis from vigorous sex or self-pleasuring. It will fade over time, or if a man is bothered by it, possible treatments such as topical retinol (vitamin A) every night before bed, laser therapy, or microdermabrasion can help to reduce the discolouration.

 

5. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Purple sores on the penis can occur as a result of genital herpes or syphilis. These STDs can be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, fever, itchiness, burning, and fatigue. If STD is suspected, it is imperative to head to a clinic to see a physician as soon as possible to be tested and get treated.

Also Read

 

6. Penile Cancer

Penile cancer tends to start on the skin of the penis and spreads towards the deeper tissues. 95% are squamous cell carcinomas, while penile melanoma accounts for 0.7%. Penile cancer is rare and the cause is not entirely known, but risk factors include smoking, HIV and high risk strains of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Symptoms include changes in the colour and thickness of the skin of the penis, foul smelling discharge under the foreskin, and abnormal non-resolving growths or ulceration of the penis. A diagnosis of penile cancer requires an urgent biopsy.

 

There are other conditions that can cause penile discolouration. It is important to determine the exact cause as treatment varies according to the cause. It is always best to visit a doctor for a physical examination and proper evaluation.

If you need to speak to our doctors , please visit our DTAP Clinics.  Alternatively, you can email us hello@dtapclinic.com.sg or call us for an appointment.

 

Take Care.

 

Other Read:

Also on Dtapclinic.com: HIV Test Singapore, STD Test Singapore, Anonymous HIV Testing

Syphilis Symptoms & Treatment (Painless STD Sores and Rashes)

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What is syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STD) with many different manifestations and potentially serious complications. It is caused by a bacteria called “Treponema pallidum”.
In the past, before the advent of antibiotics, syphilis was considered a dangerous illness with long-term, devastating consequences which could even affect the brain and nerves.
Thankfully, with the development of penicillin antibiotics and lab tests to detect syphilis infection early, modern medicine is now well equipped to diagnose, treat and cure syphilis well before complications can set in.

Syphilis – Still a Real and Relevant Infection Today

As of recent years though, there has been a rise in syphilis cases amongst both heterosexuals as well as homosexual couples, as reported by the Centers for Diseases Control (CDC), a reminder that syphilis remains a very real infection concern that any sexually active individual should be aware of.
Syphilis is transmitted by direct contact with a syphilis sore, which is a painless ulcer known as a “chancre”. These chancres can occur both in the mouth/oral cavity or in the genital region and the rectum. Sexual contact in the form or oral, vaginal or anal intercourse can all spread syphilis. If a pregnant mother has syphilis, she can also transmit it to her unborn child.

What are the symptoms and different stages of syphilis?

Reading about syphilis can be confusing because it is an infection with different stages and a multitude of varied symptoms.
But to simplify things, there are three stages of syphilis: primary, secondary and tertiary.

Primary Syphilis Symptoms

(usually begins a few weeks up to 3 months from infection)

a.) Syphilis Symptoms: Chancres
  • Painless, round ulcer
  • usually single – occurring at the site where the infection enters the body which is usually in the genital, anal or oral region
  • lasts between 3 – 8 weeks

Note that chancres will heal by themselves and disappearance of the chancre does not mean the infection is gone!

Secondary syphilis

(months or more after initial infection)

b.) Syphilis Symptoms: Rashes
  • Syphilis is known in the medical world as “the Great Mimicker” – so keep in mind that the rash it causes may look very different from what you see in photos!
  • The classic rash is a brownish rash over the palms and soles but syphilis can also cause a rash anywhere over the body
  • May range from very faint rashes to obvious reddish patches
  • Generally not itchy
  • Can occur anytime from when the initial chancre is healing to weeks after
  • May come and go
c.) Snail track ulcers
  • Raw reddish ulcers in the mouth and genital region
d.) Condylomata Lata
  • Raised, greyish patches that occur in moist regions of the body like the groin, armpits
e.) Nonspecific symptoms
  • Fever
  • Enlarged lymph nodes
  • A sore throat

Tertiary syphilis

(occurs decades after initial infection)

  • Tertiary syphilis is now fairly rare as most cases are detected and treated before they progress to this. Symptoms depend on the organs affected by syphilis

NOTES:
Someone with syphilis can also feel entirely well and not have any symptoms- this is known as latent syphilis. If the infection was acquired within the last year, it is considered early latent syphilis, but if it occurred more than a year ago, then it is considered late latent syphilis.
Syphilis can affect the eyes and nerves during any stage of infection. This can result in a variety of symptoms including vision problems, abnormal body movements and even early dementia or memory problems.

What Does a Syphilis Test Do

Who should test for syphilis and what tests are done to diagnose syphilis?

You should test for syphilis…

  • If you have had sexual contact with someone with known syphilis
  • If you have symptoms suspicious for syphilis
  • As part of your regular STD screening if you have an active sex life and have had partners whose infection status you are unsure of

Diagnosis of a syphilis infection is done through a blood test which looks for antibodies to syphilis. Syphilis blood tests can be a little complex and your doctor will be able to explain more to you about the interpretation of results and what to look out for.

What Treatment is Available for Syphilis?

Syphilis infections are treated with penicillin which is administered as an injection. The dosage or number of injections required depends on the stage of the infection.
In unfortunate cases where the infection fails to clear up with initial treatment (which is known as treatment failure), then additional antibiotics may be required for a longer duration of time.
In order to determine if treatment is successful, as well as to monitor for recurrence of the syphilis infection, regular blood tests at intervals of a few months may be required. Until one is clear of syphilis, it is best to abstain from the sexual activity so as to minimise the risk of transmitting the infection to others.
Syphilis remains a problem in the present day, but while it is a potentially serious infection, the good news is that with early diagnosis, the frightening complications that occur with untreated syphilis can very easily be prevented.

Take Care!

Other Interesting Reads:

  1. An Overview of STD – From an STD Doctor
  2. Weak Erection? Erectile Dysfunction? How to Improve Erection with Pills
  3. Do I Have HIV Rash? Or Are They Other STD-Related Rashes?
  4. What are the Causes of Abnormal Penile Discharge?
  5. What are the Symptoms of HIV Infection and AIDS?
  6. What You Need To Know about HPV, Cervical Cancer, Pap Smear & HPV Vaccination
  7. 11 Causes of Dyspareunia (Pain During Intercourse)
  8. What is HPV Vaccination (Gardasil 9)
  9. 10 Causes of abnormal Vaginal Lumps and Bumps
  10. An Overview of Gonorrhoea
  11. Genital Warts: The Cauliflower-Like Lumps on the Genitals
  12. Syphilis Symptoms (Painless STD Sores & STD Rashes)