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Physicians

TB Testing: Who Needs It, What a Positive Result Means

Tuberculosis (TB), a contagious bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, remains a health risk in the U.S. Though cases declined for decades, recent increases — including ~10,347 cases in early data from 2024 — suggest testing and treatment of latent TB is needed more than ever.  Testing is crucial both for diagnosing latent TB (where bacteria are present but symptoms are absent) and active TB disease (which is contagious and manifests symptoms).

Praxis Medical Insights: Syphilis Diagnosis and Management

Syphilis remains a persistent sexually transmitted infection that requires rigorous diagnosis and management to prevent transmission, progression, and severe complications. This guideline distilled by Praxis Medical Insights outlines the current consensus from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and related professional bodies on optimal screening methods, diagnostic interpretations, and treatment regimens.

HPV Vaccine: What age is too late?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infects nearly 80% of people at some point during their lives, and while the immune system clears most infections, persistent HPV can lead to genital warts and several cancers (cervical, anal, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and oropharyngeal). HPV vaccination offers strong protection—preventing more than 90% of HPV-related cancers—and is most effective when administered before HPV exposure.

Do Pap Smear Checks For STDs?

This video explains the role of Pap smears in cervical health, highlighting that while they detect abnormal cell changes, they do not test for most STDs. It focuses on the connection between Pap smears and human papillomavirus (HPV), which is related to cervical cancer. The video emphasizes the importance of understanding the limitations of Pap smears and encourages discussing STD concerns with your healthcare provider for comprehensive testing.

TB Diagnosis and Treatment (For Clinicians)

This webpage provides clinical guidance on the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis (TB) and latent TB infection (LTBI) in Wisconsin, outlining risk assessment, symptom evaluation, testing methods, and treatment protocols. It includes links to CDC resources and encourages use of state and national tools to support accurate diagnosis and effective care.