Negative Followed by Positive

[tj876]

Hello:

I'm currently in a relationship with a female who tested negative for Syphilis at the beginning of her pregnancy.  However, after delivery she was tested again and was found to be positive.  The doctors say the results imply the disease was acquired recently.  When tested after a waiting period, my results were negative.  

This is my question: I have been told that some individuals in the latent stage of syphilis can test negative.  I have also read that this is clearly not the case.  Is it possible that my partner tested negative while infected with syphilis in the latent stage?  

[auntiejessi]

What were her exact results?  Did she have a confirmatory test come back positive?  Was the baby tested?

No, latent syphilis won't give a negative result.  

I don't know where you all live, but in the US and other countries, syphilis is uncommon.  I'd wonder why they tested her after pregnancy unless they suspected something.  I'd also wonder about a false positive.

Aj

[tj876]

I don't know the exact results.  I don't believe I have access to them.  She thinks I'm accusing her of infidelity if I bring it up so I generally do not speak of it.  I do know that there was a confirmatory test which came back positive.  She was treated and re-tested, and all is well.  By that I mean the numbers indicate that she is a person who has been treated for the disease.  I highly doubt the possibility of a false positive after several tests.  

Is it possible there was a false negative on the first test?  

My test came back negative.  Our child had a small amount of antibodies but she exhibited no symptoms and was treated.  

My partner tested positive for HPV years previous, perhaps this, or sexual history, was the grounds for retesting?