Evaluation of the syphla chek test for syphilis in a high risk population

The Syphla Chek slide test for syphilis is, in principle, similar to the rapid plasma reagin (RPR) card test for syphilis. The Syphla Chek test employs a stabilized VDRL antigen affixed to a kaolin particle for macroscopic visualization of the serologic reaction when mixed with serum. Of 600 specimens tested, it was found that the Syphla Chek test had a 90.3% exact agreement with the VDRL test in reactive sera and a 96.7% exact agreement with the VDRL in non-reactive sera by qualitative testing. Comparison of the Syphla Chek quantitative results indicate that 94% of the sera tested were within plus or minus 1 dilution of the VDRL. The Syphla Chek slide test for syphilis has 3 major advantages: no heat inactivation is required; it can be read macroscopically; and it can be run in a small laboratory or a physician's office with adequately trained personnel. It is suggested that the test be further studied in comparisons with the RPR and the VDRL. These studies should also include the comparison of quantitative titers in treated patients, since these are of critical importance to the physician when following the course of treatment in the syphilitic patient.