Syphilis is a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is increasing in prevalence, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). According to the CDC, between 2015 and 2016 alone, the number of reported primary and secondary (P&S) syphilis cases in the U.S. increased by 18% — with 58% of those cases affecting MSM.
At Test Smartly Labs, we offer fast, affordable, and confidential syphilis testing across all of our Kansas City metro locations, helping individuals protect their health and their partners.
What Is Syphilis?
Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It spreads through direct contact with syphilitic sores during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. If left untreated, it can result in severe long-term health consequences — but the good news is that it’s completely curable with antibiotics when caught early.
The 4 Stages of Syphilis
Understanding the stages of syphilis is crucial for identifying symptoms and knowing when to test:
1. Primary Syphilis
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Appearance of sores (chancres) at the site of infection (genitals, anus, rectum, mouth)
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Sores are usually painless and may go unnoticed
2. Secondary Syphilis
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Rash (commonly on palms or soles)
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Swollen lymph nodes
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Fever
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Mucous patches or lesions in the mouth or genital areas
3. Latent Syphilis
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No visible signs or symptoms
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Bacteria remain in the body and may cause damage later
4. Tertiary Syphilis
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Severe complications in the brain, nerves, heart, liver, bones, and joints
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Can cause stroke, dementia, blindness, and even death
Some individuals may live symptom-free for years, but the infection still progresses. This is why early detection through testing is critical.
Who Should Get Tested for Syphilis?
The CDC provides specific guidelines on who should undergo syphilis testing:
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All pregnant women early in pregnancy and again later if needed
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All sexually active men who have sex with men (MSM) — at least annually
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MSM with multiple or anonymous partners — every 3 to 6 months
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Anyone who has had unprotected sex, a new sexual partner, or symptoms of syphilis
How Is Syphilis Tested?
We use a blood test to screen for syphilis at Test Smartly Labs. The test is fast, reliable, and can detect the infection at various stages.
If you test positive, treatment is typically a simple antibiotic injection — often penicillin — administered by your physician.
What to Expect When You Visit Test Smartly Labs
We are committed to making STD testing in Kansas City simple, safe, and confidential. Here’s what to bring and how to prepare for your syphilis test:
Be Prepared:
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Fast for 10–12 hours (recommended for some blood tests)
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Stay hydrated to ease blood draws
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Bring a government-issued photo ID
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Bring any referral or test authorization paperwork
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Complete the TSL Intake Form & HIPAA Disclosure
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Pay upfront (we do not bill insurance, but we can provide documentation for self-submission)
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Call ahead if you’re undergoing specialized testing
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Arrive 30 minutes before closing to ensure we have time to process your samples
Convenient Testing Across Kansas City
Test Smartly Labs operates multiple testing centers across the Kansas City metro, including:
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Independence, MO
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Overland Park, KS
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Kansas City, MO
We offer walk-in testing and also accept appointments. Our professional staff ensures quick, accurate results in a non-judgmental, private environment.
Why Early Detection Is So Important
Syphilis can progress without symptoms, yet cause lifelong complications if ignored. Routine testing, particularly for those in high-risk groups, allows for early treatment, stopping the disease in its tracks and preventing transmission to others.
Remember: Syphilis is curable. But only if you know you have it.
Schedule Your Syphilis Test in Kansas City Today
Whether you’re part of a high-risk group, have experienced potential exposure, or simply want peace of mind — syphilis testing is a smart step toward better sexual health.
Contact Test Smartly Labs or Find a Testing Location Near You to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Your Hours?
All Test Smartly Labs are open Monday through Friday, from 9am – 5pm
Do We Need To Have An Appointment?
No appointment is required to come into our labs, and all of our locations are on a walk-in basis. However, it is recommended you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to closing. If your situation requires special time considerations, please call us to determine if it would be better to arrange an appointment time.
Do I Need Doctors’ Orders For Testing?
No doctors’ orders needed, we are a Direct-Access Testing Center. You are encouraged to consult your medical professional with your lab test results.
What’s The Turnaround Time For Lab Work?
Average turnaround time is 2-5 business days depending on the complexity of the lab work. Most tests are available in 2-3 days.
Do You Need A List Of My Medications For A Drug Test?
Per protocol, the lab techs are not allowed to receive or ask for your medications. A medical review officer or MRO, a licensed physician who specializes in toxicology, will call you and ask for your medications and your physician’s phone number if it’s detected in your sample during testing. The MRO will then call your physician to verify your medications.
Related Information
Understanding STI vs STD
STI stands for “Sexually Transmitted Infection” and STD stands for “Sexually Transmitted Disease”. These two terms sound similar and the difference between them can be confusing. One of the reasons for this is that up to a certain point these two terms were synonymous and were used interchangeably. But now there is a technical difference between these terms which has been acknowledged by the medical community and can no longer be used synonymously.
Privacy Matters for STI/STD Testing at Test Smartly Labs
While all health-related matters deserve the utmost privacy and confidentiality, some types of blood tests and lab work need even more. When it comes to STI or STD testing, you do not want to have any small chance of anyone you know finding out about your risks or diagnoses. Of course, if you go to your doctor’s office or even a public clinic, the HIPAA rules require everyone involved to keep your information private and secure. However, you may still have some doubts troubling your mind.
The Silent Epedemic STD
STD/STI statistics and need-to-know information to live a healthy life
It is one of the most difficult and uncomfortable topics for most people to discuss – and it is literally ruining millions of lives every day.
Whatever Lab Test, Drug Test Or DNA Test You Need, We’re Here To Help!
Test Smartly Labs is your one-source for a Direct-Access Lab Testing in Greater Kansas City. We partner with only the leading laboratories in the USA to provide accessible, affordable, and accurate lab tests, drug & alcohol tests, and advanced DNA testing. We specialize in local access for ALL TYPES of testing, and we make it super easy for you! Helping you take control of your health through lab testing is our only business!
