Direct detection of T. pallidum nucleic acid (DNA) in patient specimens to aid in the diagnosis of syphilis

Sterile, leak proof container

Collect specimen in sterile, leak proof container

Sterile leak-proof container

Aptima Multitest swab specimen collection kit

OR

M4 media, VCM medium (green-cap) tube or equivalent (UTM)

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Genital lesion swab: 

1. Swab any visible lesions.
2. Withdraw the swab without touching the skin.
3. Immediately place the swab into the transport tube so that the tip of the swab is visible below the tube label.
4. Carefully break the swab shaft at the score line against the side of the tube and discard the top portion of the swab shaft.
5. Tightly screw the cap onto the tube.

CSF
Refrigerated (preferred) - 14 days
Ambient - 7 days
Frozen - 30 days

Swab in Aptima® Transport tube
Rrefrigerated (preferred) - 14 days
Ambient -  14 days
Frozen - 30 days

Swab in M4, VCM (UTM)
Refrigerated (preferred) - 14 days
Ambient - NO
Frozen: 30 days

• Transport tubes with 2 swabs
• Aptima transport tubes with non-Aptima swabs

Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction

Not detected