Each of us constantly hears that it is much easier to prevent a disease than to treat it, and if it was not possible to protect ourselves, then it is early diagnosis that is the key to successful treatment. This fully applies to syphilis, for the detection of which the Wassermann reaction has been used for a long time. Currently, this technique is rarely used in its classical form, however, many experts already out of habit call the Wasserman reaction all tests for the detection of syphilis.
When to take an analysis and how to do it
This blood test (Wasserman reaction) for the detection of syphilis is necessary when passing many medical commissions, as well as when registering for pregnancy in a antenatal clinic. The expectant mother is required to donate blood to the Wasserman reaction, not only at the beginning of pregnancy, but also at 32-33 weeks, since this disease is extremely dangerous for the fetus. For analysis, it is necessary to donate blood on an empty stomach, the sampling is made from a vein. Serological tests can be done in the state laboratory at the place of residence or in a private company that has a license to conduct such tests.
The main advantage of this analysis is that the Wasserman reaction is easy and does not require much time, although, on the other hand, the percentage of errors during the study is quite high. To get the result, it takes only a few minutes, so it is advisable not to go far from the manipulation cabinet immediately after passing the analysis in case of unexpected results (for example, a false positive reaction).
When can I get tested and why is it needed
After infection, the Wasserman reaction becomes positive only after 6 weeks, while when the disease passes to the stage of secondary syphilis, a positive analysis result is detected in almost all patients. In this case, together with this reaction, additional laboratory tests are carried out that help to make an accurate diagnosis and find out the remoteness of the infection. In addition, the Wassermann reaction allows you to control the treatment process and objectively monitor its results. That is why you need to listen to the doctor’s recommendations - he will tell you the right time to take tests.
The disadvantages of this diagnostic method
The most important drawback of this research methodology is that in some cases a false positive Wasserman reaction can be observed. This can happen when a person's physiology changes (for example, during pregnancy, menstruation) or in the presence of concomitant diseases (tuberculosis, various blood pathologies). If the result of the analysis is positive, the doctor should prescribe other diagnostic tests, the totality of which will provide recommendations for treatment, but only after all the tests have been received on hand. It is impossible to make a correct diagnosis on the basis of only one outdated analysis, so the doctor must also examine the patient's complaints and conduct a medical examination.
Is it worth worrying
In fact, if the patient has a negative Wasserman reaction, so far he has nothing to worry about. Another thing is if a false positive reaction is observed. Even in cases where the patient is firmly convinced that he does not have syphilis, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination that will help identify the causes of false results.
In patients who have a positive test result, but do not have a pathogen in their blood, they are most often diagnosed with tuberculosis, malaria, borreliosis, viral hepatitis, mononucleosis, collagenoses and other diseases. It is not worth completely neglecting the doctor's recommendations, even if it seems that he is just being reinsured.