STD test

What’s measured

Screening for sexually transmitted diseases and other communicable infections

Tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) include up to 11 parameters, varying depending on the selected variant. If the results of tests for STDs or other sexually transmitted diseases are negative, but the symptoms have not subsided, it is advisable to see a specialist.

If you engage in multiple sexual partners, have frequent unprotected sex, or are unsure of your partner's health status, you have the choice to undergo testing at a laboratory. For example, injecting drug use, tattoos or piercings increase the risk of contracting hepatitis C.

Approximately one million people worldwide are infected with sexually transmitted diseases every day. The issue lies in the global rise of these infections, including within the Slovak Republic. According to statistics, more than 2 100 people were diagnosed with STDs in Slovakia in 2022.

Different versions of individual STD test packages incorporate screenings for syphilis, chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhea, and HIV. Choose a laboratory testing variant according to the range of parameters that may be of interest to you. In addition to the term ""Sexually Transmitted Diseases"" (STDs), you may encounter the term ""Sexually Transmitted Infections"" (STIs), which carry the same meaning.

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.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia, specifically Chlamydia trachomatis, has become one of the common pathogens responsible for sexually transmitted diseases. Chlamydia are intracellular parasites. Aside from causing sexually transmitted diseases, they can also lead to respiratory or conjunctival (eye) infections. The prolonged course of the disease, coupled with substantial restrictions on the intimate lives of partners, significantly impacts the quality of life of those affected.

The typical incubation period for Chlamydia trachomatis infection ranges from 7 to 14 days, making collection for serological antibody determination appropriate approximately 14 days after infection. Direct evidence of chlamydia can be obtained promptly following infection.

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).

Herpes simplex virus (HSV)

Herpes is an infectious condition characterized by recurring episodes triggered by the reactivation of the human herpes virus, belonging to the Herpesviridae family. This infection affects the genitalia. When infected with HSV-2, often through unprotected sexual contact, symptoms typically manifest as one or more genital or anal vesicles or sores. Symptoms may be different for everyone, and sometimes they may not appear at all or may be subtle.

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.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Gonorrhea is a very common sexually transmitted infection. Many infections, however, are asymptomatic. Untreated gonorrhea can lead to severe and permanent health complications in both women and men. Gonorrhea can be cured with proper treatment.

Instructions before collection

Read the pre-collection instructions carefully, which can be found next to the STD test variant you have chosen