Syphilis spirochete-specific antibodies are immunoglobulins produced in the serum that specifically bind to the syphilis spirochete after infection with the spirochete and stimulation by the antigen.
The immunoglobulin produced by syphilis-specific antibodies specifically binds only to the syphilis spirochete, and is indicated to persist in human serum during infection with the syphilis spirochete. Even if currently cured, does not affect the survival of antibodies.
Screening for syphilis is commonly performed by a serologic test for syphilis, which has a high sensitivity and specificity. A negative test result usually means that the person tested is not infected with syphilis. A positive test result means that the person has been infected with syphilis, which usually does not interfere with the patient’s life after active treatment.