Sexually transmitted disease test PLUS

Advantages of our PLUS testing package

• Total of 8 laboratory parameters
• Laboratory tests for detecting HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis
• Results delivered discreetly
• Results delivered within 3 business days
• Liver tests included

What´s measured

The PLUS testing package contains 8 laboratory parameters. Unlike the BASIC test package, it broadens the diagnosis of sexually or otherwise transmitted diseases by incorporating testing for HIV infection and assessing the level of protective antibodies to hepatitis B. Variants of the individual STD test packages include, for example, screenings for syphilis, chlamydia, or HIV. Choose a laboratory testing variant according to the range of parameters that may be of interest to you.

As part of the test, we investigate the following diseases:

We provide four variants depending on the scope of the testing package. In the BASIC variant, we analyze 6 parameters in your blood. In the PLUS variant, we examine 8 parameters, and in the EXPERT variant (for both female and male), we test 11 parameters.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)

HIV is the virus responsible for causing AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. HIV is primarily transmitted through blood, sexual activities, unprotected sex, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

There are 2 types of the virus:

• HIV-1,
• HIV-2.

In approximately 70% of cases, the initial symptoms of HIV infection resemble flu-like symptoms, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, chills, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, and mouth sores. However, only around 20% of individuals experiencing these symptoms feel unwell enough to seek medical attention. The manifestations described are called acute retroviral syndrome. In common viral infections, these symptoms may be overlooked. They last 3 to 14 days and then spontaneously disappear. This period may be followed by an asymptomatic phase of varying length, which may last up to several years. During this period, antibodies to HIV antigens become detectable. During this period, the virus almost disappears from the blood and migrates to the peripheral lymphoid organs and tissues.

Syphilis (RRR, Anti-Treponema pallidum)

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted, chronic and worldwide spread disease. If left untreated, it can seriously damage virtually all organs over time. However, it predominantly impacts the skin, bones, heart, spinal cord, and brain. In later stages, it can lead to various organ disabilities and mental disorders. The untreated form typically carries a poor prognosis.

The initial symptoms may manifest approximately 21 days after exposure, with the incubation period ranging from 10 to 90 days, indicating considerable variability and potential for a prolonged duration. If the patient is left untreated, a so-called latent form of the disease may appear, which can last for 3 to 30 years without symptoms. However, it can be identified through the presence of antibodies in the blood.

Hepatitis B and C

Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are viral infections that affect the liver.
Hepatitis B (HBV) is attributed to the hepatitis B virus, which can result in either acute or chronic liver disease. An acute infection might manifest as flu-like symptoms and could resolve spontaneously. However, some people may develop more serious liver disease. If HBV infection lasts longer than 6 months, it becomes chronic.
Hepatitis C (HCV) is induced by the hepatitis C virus. This infection can also progress through both acute and chronic phases. If it develops into a chronic infection, it can lead to liver damage such as cirrhosis or cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).

Liver parameters

Liver ALT and GGT parameters are incorporated into the STD test packages.

ALT parameter

Elevated ALT activity indicates cell damage, particularly in the liver. As a laboratory marker, it is utilized in diagnosing liver failure, assessing liver functional reserve, and in procedures such as liver transplantation or resection.

GGT parameter

GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) is an enzyme bound to cellular membranes and found mainly in the liver. It is highly sensitive to changes in hepatic function and to bile duct injury, which may occur, for example, as a result of taking medications or consuming alcohol.