“Reverse Sequence” Syphilis Tests

Dr. Chapa’s Clinical Pearls.

Lots of practical clinical pearls in this episode! “Reverse sequence testing” for syphilis has largely taken over the traditional testing algorithm. Traditionally, non-Treponemal tests (RPR, VDRL) were done first with a reflex to a Treponema specific test if that was positive (MHATP). But this is now considered the antiquated technique. Reverse sequence testing has the advantage of potentially identifying infected patients very early on. In this session, we will give easy to use/practical tools for reverse sequence test interpretation, and how to best manage “discordant“ results.