STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel)
Understanding STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel)
What is STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel)?
An STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) serves as a screening tool for several sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), syphilis, and chlamydia. It is usually advised to individuals who exhibit symptoms of such diseases or those who have a high risk of contracting them.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases that spread through sexual contact in all age groups. These STDs are usually caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can be transmitted through the blood, semen, vaginal discharge, and other body fluids. Some STDs can also spread from the mother to the child during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.
According to WHO, more than 1 million sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are acquired daily worldwide, the majority of which are asymptomatic. That is why STDs may go unnoticed until a person has complications or a partner is diagnosed. If an individual develops symptoms, they may appear around the genital region and could include bumps, sores, or warts on or near the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus; swelling/itching in private parts; discharge from the penis; vaginal discharge with bad odor or bleeding; painful intercourse; and frequent or painful urination. Additionally, some people might have generalized symptoms such as skin rash, weight loss, night sweats, aches, pain, fever, chills, etc.
An STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) is also advised for premarital screening of individuals for potential infections. An annual screening is advised by CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) for those who are at high risk for STDs, like those with HIV-positive sex partners, multiple sexual partners, homosexual people, sharing needles, syringes, or drug-injecting equipment, etc. Timely diagnosis and immediate treatment by a doctor can help lower the risk of contracting an STD.
Usually, no special preparation is required for an STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel); eat or drink normally as per your daily routine. However, a duly filled consent form is mandatory for sample collection. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. If your test results suggest you have an STD, regular testing is essential to maintain your sexual health and prevent the spread of the disease. If you have any concerns about STDs, consult your doctor to know if this panel is appropriate for you.
The best way to prevent STDs is to practice safe intercourse. This can be achieved by using protection or other barrier methods. If you think you have acquired an STD, it is important to get screened, consult a doctor, and start appropriate treatment.
What is STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) used for?
An STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) test is done:
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To diagnose various STDs when you have suspected signs of sexually transmitted infections.
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If you are diagnosed with hepatitis B & C, tuberculosis, or any other sexually transmitted disease.
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When sexually active men and women have unprotected intercourse and are not in monogamous relationships.
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In pregnant women as a part of antenatal care.
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In immunocompromised patients with a recent history of unprotected sexual contact, shared needle usage, or blood transfusions.
What does STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) measure?
Contains 6 testsAn STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) is tailored for the screening of STDs. It includes tests for chlamydia (Chlamydia Trachomatis IgG), syphilis [(VDRL; RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) and Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination (TPHA)], human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) [HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test], and herpes simplex virus (HSV) (Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2 IgM
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2 IgG). An individual who has close physical contact with an infected person, multiple sexual partners, or a history of needle sharing might be at a higher risk of getting infected. Early detection can help get effective treatment and may help prevent further spread of the disease. This panel is also advised for premarital screening of individuals to detect and prevent potential infections.
Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG
The Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG test analyzes the levels of chlamydia antibodies IgG in the blood. The IgG antibody detection is a marker for a chlamydia-positive immune response, either for ongoing (chronic) or past infections. IgG antibodies against chlamydia trachomatis can be detected within 2-4 weeks after exposure and remain detectable even after the person has been treated successfully. However, abnormal results do not confirm an active infection, as IgG antibodies can persist even after successful treatment.
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VDRL-RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin)
The VDRL-RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) test looks for antibodies (specific proteins) that react to syphilis in the blood. This means the test doesn't find the actual bacteria that cause syphilis. Instead, it looks for antibodies against substances given off by cells that have been harmed by the bacteria. Antibodies are a specific type of protein produced by your immune system to fight off any invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins. Detecting these antibodies can help your doctors know if you have syphilis. Untreated syphilis can spread to your eyes, blood vessels, heart, and brain. But it can be easily cured if treated in the early stages.
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Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination
A Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination test analyzes the presence of antibodies in the blood that are specifically directed against Treponema pallidum, the bacteria that causes syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease (STD). The presence of Treponema pallidum antibodies indicates that the individual has been exposed to the bacterium, either recently or in the past. Detecting these antibodies can help your doctors know if you have syphilis. Untreated syphilis can spread to your eyes, blood vessels, heart, and brain. A Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination test can help in early diagnosis and ensure prompt treatment to prevent complications from syphilis.
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HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test
An HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test simultaneously detects HIV p24 antigen and antibodies associated with HIV 1 & 2. The HIV p24 antigen is the most abundant HIV protein and its detection is used clinically to diagnose an HIV infection early on since HIV-specific antibodies are not detectable in a very recently acquired infection. HIV-1 was discovered first and is the most widespread, whereas HIV-2 is more than 55% genetically different from HIV-1. The transmission rate of HIV-2 is also slower than HIV-1.
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Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgM
The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgM test is designed to detect IgM antibodies that are produced as a body's first response to a HSV infection. IgM antibodies may take up to 10 days to develop. Also, these antibodies are usually present in higher concentrations shortly after an infection and eventually decrease after a time period (7-10 days). Therefore, the presence of HSV-1 or HSV-2 IgM antibodies typically suggests a recent infection.
Early detection allows doctors to detect symptoms quickly and provide necessary medical interventions to individuals suffering from HSV infection, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life.
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Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG
The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test determines the presence of IgG antibodies against HSV-1 and HSV-2 in response to the Herpes infection. Your body begins to make two relevant types of HSV-1 antibody or HSV-2 antibody around 18 to 21 days after you are exposed to the virus and remains in the body for life. The presence of IgG antibodies generally indicates past exposure and immunity against Herpes infection.
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Interpreting STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) results
Interpretations
- A negative HIV antibody test usually indicates that a person does not have HIV infection. A negative test only means that their is no evidence of disease at the time of the test. The HIV antibody tests does not detect an HIV infection soon after exposure, before the development of antibodies. Most people produce detectable levels of antibody 3 to 12 weeks after exposure. If someone is screened with an HIV antibody test too soon, the result may be negative despite the fact that the person is infected. For those who are at increased risk of HIV infection, it is important to get this screening test done frequently to check for possible exposure to the virus
- If someone tests positive on both the initial screening and supplemental testing, then that person is considered to be infected with HIV