The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast #364 Screening for syphilis: A USPSTF Update with Dr. Katrina Donahue
Nov 2, 2022
Dr. Katrina Donahue, a Professor at UNC Chapel Hill and a member of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, dives into the vital conversation about syphilis screening. She outlines the recent USPSTF guidelines, emphasizing the importance of screening high-risk individuals as syphilis cases rise. The discussion also contrasts traditional testing methods with newer rapid tests, weighing their efficacy. Additionally, Dr. Donahue addresses the delicate balance of risks and benefits in screening, calling for better risk assessments in primary care.
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Syphilis Rates Surge, Guideline Reaffirmed
- Syphilis cases have risen dramatically from 6,000 in 2000 to nearly 40,000 recently.
- The USPSTF reaffirmed screening due to this resurgence and continuing benefits for high-risk groups.
Who Should Be Screened for Syphilis
- Screen non-pregnant sexually active adolescents and adults at increased risk for syphilis.
- High risk includes MSM, HIV or STI history, drug use, incarceration, sex work, military service, and local prevalence.
Geography and Syphilis Risk Assessment
- No specific geographic prevalence threshold defines syphilis risk.
- Clinical judgment and community prevalence guide screening decisions; standardized risk tools are lacking.