Prevalence and correlates of active syphilis diagnosed using serological assays and the molecular research-use-only Aptima Treponema pallidum assay among pregnant women in Zambia, 2023

Abstract

Introduction: assay [Hologic; transcription-mediated amplification (TMA) assay] among pregnant women attending four antenatal care facilities in Nchelenge, Zambia in 2023. Methods: ) were detected in clinician-collected vaginal swab samples using Aptima assays on the Panther system (Hologic). HIV testing was performed with the Determine HIV Test Kit, and bacterial vaginosis (BV) was diagnosed using Nugent's score. Active syphilis correlates were identified using univariable and multivariable logistic regression. Results: , and HIV infections were significant risk factors of active syphilis. Advanced gestational age (from 28 to 39 weeks) at enrolment was associated with significantly lower risk of syphilis positivity. Discussion: assay for suspected early syphilis can ensure timely detection of both seroconverted and seronegative early syphilis cases, early treatment and effective prevention of mother-to-child transmission.