STI Health Check | Geschlechtskrankheiten-Test: which blood markers matter?

For an STI health check, certain blood markers are relevant, but not for all pathogens. Key blood parameters include: HIV (p24 antigen and antibodies, often combined as 4th-generation HIV combo test), syphilis (TPPA as screening, VDRL for activity assessment), hepatitis B (HBsAg, anti-HBc, anti-HBs), and hepatitis C (anti-HCV). For gonorrhea and chlamydia, blood tests are not standard; urine or swab samples are preferred. Herpes simplex virus type 2 can also be detected serologically, but its predictive value in asymptomatic individuals is limited. Important: Each test has a window period (e.g., 4–6 weeks for HIV) during which an infection may not yet be detectable. A negative result does not rule out a recent infection. Seek medical advice to determine which markers are appropriate for your individual risk profile. The evidence for these blood markers is strong (clinical practice), but they do not replace comprehensive STI diagnostics.