There are two types of syphilis antibodies: specific antibodies, which are positive for life once infected, and non-specific antibodies, which usually become negative after syphilis is cured. Syphilis is caused by infection with the syphilis spirochete, and after infection with the spirochete, the body produces antibodies, mainly specific antibodies and non-specific antibodies. Positive specific antibodies indicate syphilis infection or a history of syphilis infection, so once infected with syphilis, specific antibodies will remain positive for life. Non-specific antibodies are not entirely unique to syphilis. Positive antibodies indicate active syphilis, and after active treatment, the syphilis spirochetes are completely killed in the body, and the non-specific antibody titer decreases and eventually becomes negative, indicating that the syphilis has been cured. If both syphilis antibodies are positive, active treatment is needed to avoid progression of the disease.