Syphilis test Urine or Blood sample

[Rocky1510]

So today I went to get an std check at a clinic in Tanzania, I told the guy testing to test me for syphilis, he took a urine sample and it came back positive. This clinic and lab were really dirty and the lab looked like it wasn't well equipped, but it was supported by various govt and NGOs for testing HIV. After some research I found out that syphilis is detected through a blood sample, nothing about urine. So I visited a proper doctor, showed him my genitals, and he did a blood test for syphilis which came back negative. I also explained to him that I had done one earlier that day and he said you don't test for syphilis with urine, blood is one of the tests. Also the first guy, I have a feeling wanted money as he didn't give me any paper or receipt to show the result, just saying i should buy 4 injections from him and he would administer them. What should I do? As I would need to inform my previous partners if I have it as well

[Rocky1510]

Thank you very much for your advice and help I really do appreciate it. The sore has almost gone, it never developed it just looked like some red skin and now has become much lighter and seems to be going, I will check again in 6 weeks just to be sure.

Thanks

[Life360_Dave]

Blood is the test method and i dont see your test changing to a positive in 2 weeks but as a rule of thumb 6 weeks is the recommended window so do have one more blood test but swabbing the sore is also a good idea.

[Rocky1510]

Thank you, I think I had the exposure 4 weeks ago. But the doctor said it didn't look too much like a chancre, it is only a red spot that appears 2 weeks ago and it is fading away. So should I follow up after 6 weeks maybe? And is urine used to test syphilis? I really appreciate your help

[Life360_Dave]

Hi, since your blood test did not show antibodies for syphilis then you dont have syphilis. If you do have a genital sore you can have it swabbed for confirmation but the blood test should be taken at least 6 weeks post any exposure.
P.S. i use to work in Tanzania. I was based in kenya and would drive there.
dave