
STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel)
Understanding STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel)
What is STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel)?
The STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) consists of a series of blood tests that help in screening sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), syphilis, and chlamydia. It is usually recommended for people who exhibit symptoms of STDs or who are at higher risk of contracting them.
STDs, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections that are spread through sexual contact across all age groups. STDs are most often caused by parasites, viruses, and bacteria and can be transmitted through the blood, semen, vaginal discharge and other fluids. A few STDs may be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, at birth, and through 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 someone develops symptoms, they may include:
- Bumps, sores, or warts on genital skin, anal area, and mouth
- Swelling or itching in the private parts
- abnormal genital (penis or vagina) discharge characterized by an unpleasant odor or bloody
- Painful intercourse
- Frequent or painful urination
- General symptoms like skin rash, weight loss, night sweats, aches, pain, fever, or chills
The STD Panel is also recommended as premarital screening of individuals for possible infections. Yearly screening is recommended by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) for those with high risk for STDs, such as those with HIV-positive sexual partners, homosexual individuals, multiple sex partners, those sharing syringes, needles, or drug-injecting tools, etc. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can reduce the risk of catching an STD.
Typically, there is no prior preparation needed for an STD Panel. Eat and drink as per your daily routine. However, a duly filled consent form is necessary for sample collection.
A positive test result may indicate the presence of a sexually transmitted disease (STD), and it's important to discuss the findings with a doctor promptly. Regular testing is key to managing sexual health and preventing further transmission. If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about STDs, speak with your doctor to see if this panel is suitable for you.
Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs):
🧼 Hygiene: Maintain personal hygiene and urinate after intercourse to help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
🎓Educate Yourself: Learn about STDs, how they spread, and their impact on health. Awareness is the first step toward prevention.
🧍♀️Avoid Risky Behavior: Restrict multiple partners, have protected intercourse, and never share needles or intimate items.
🛡️ Learn Safe Practices: Understand how STDs are transmitted and the best ways to protect yourself. Knowledge and safe practices are your first line of defense.
🕒 Timely screening: Have regular STD tests, particularly if you have new/multiple sex partners. Early diagnosis avoids complications.
⚠️ Habits (Drugs and Alcohol): Refrain from drugs or heavy drinking since such habits can impair judgment and result in poor decision-making.
What is STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) used for?
The STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) is done:
A. In Symptomatic Individuals
- Bumps, sores, or warts on genital skin, anal area, and mouth
- Swelling or itching in the private parts
- Abnormal genital (penis or vagina) discharge characterized by an unpleasant odor or bloody
- Painful intercourse
- Frequent or painful urination
- General symptoms like skin rash, weight loss, night sweats, aches, pain, fever, or chills
B. In High-Risk Groups
- Individuals with multiple sexual partners
- Those engaging in unprotected sex
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- People who use injectable drugs
- Sex workers or those with partners who are sex workers
- Individuals with a history of previous STDs
- Those whose partners have tested positive for an STD
C. In Special Populations
- Pregnant women (as part of prenatal screening)
- People undergoing fertility treatments
- Individuals planning to donate blood or organs
D. In Individuals with Known or Suspected Exposure
- After confirmed or suspected exposure to an infected partner
- For monitoring and follow-up in previously diagnosed cases
E. As Part Of Preventive or Routine Screening
- Pre-marital or pre-conception screening
What does STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel) measure?
Contains 6 testsThe 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 with frequent physical contact with an infected one, having several sex partners, or a history of sharing needles could be at greater risk of getting an STD. If detected early, effective treatment can help prevent further transmission of the disease. This panel is also recommended for premarital screening of an individual to detect and prevent future infection.
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.
Know more about Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG
RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin)
The 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
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel)
Frequently Asked Questions about STD Panel (Sexually Transmitted Diseases Panel)
Q. Which diseases are diagnosed with the STD panel?
Q. What are the most common symptoms of STDs?
Q. Can STDs be transmitted non-sexually?
Q. Can the STD Panel be done during pregnancy?
Q. Can STDs be cured?
Q. Can STDs cause other health problems in women?
Q. How do I take care of myself if I have a sexually transmitted infection?
Q. Can STDs be transmitted through kissing?
Q. What factors can affect the STD Panel results?
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