Keywords
Public health
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)
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Abstract
Objective: To analyze the epidemiological and molecular characteristics of syphilis and discuss molecular approaches for optimizing the early diagnosis of Treponema pallidum infection. Literature review: The incidence of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI), has been increasing worldwide, with an estimated 8.0 million new cases reported in 2022. Currently, syphilis is diagnosed using serological tests, which are associated with limitations, such as low sensitivity to detect early-stage infection and poor ability to distinguish between cured and active syphilis cases. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop new diagnostic methods to detect Treponema pallidum in the early stages of infection. Molecular typing methods, including the Enhanced Centers for Disease Control and Prevention system, help in understanding the global diversity of T. pallidum strains. Despite its relevance, there is a scarcity of studies on the molecular profile and resistance of T. pallidum in South America. Final considerations: It is essential that public health efforts focus not only on education and awareness of prevention but also on research and development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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