Prevalence Studies of Syphilis Role of Clinician and Laboratory Aids

Abstract

Prevalance of syphilis is estimated by using du= parameters: (i) results of initial VDRL screwing-, (ii) results of FrA-200 used as confirmatory test on low positive reactors (LPR); and (iii) clinical findings.on the LPR. Variable prevalence rates can be reported depending on how these parameters.are utilised. These rates are computed for 1479 dermatology patients above 15 years of age and 663 9 maternity patients studied during 1969-73. On the basis of FrA-200 test, the BFP rate is as high as 83.3%. Probable factors contributing to this high BFP rate are discussed. The inconsistencies between serological and clinical diagnoses are also analysed. It is stressed that clinical judgment by the physician in assessing the LPR has still great importance considering the non-specific and not infalliable nature of the VDRL and FTA-200 tests respectively.