title: [Positive serological tests for syphilis in black primary school children in Bloemfontein: a pilot study].
abstract: Sera from 1575 black primary school children in Bloemfontein were subjected to serological screening tests for syphilis. Forty-six (2,92%) were found to be seropositive on screening; 32 (2,03%) of these were confirmed as true-positive reactions and 10 (0,64%) manifested only biological false-positive reactions. Four sera were insufficient for confirmatory tests. From published reports covering a period of over 60 years, it is evident that syphilis is widespread in South Africa, especially in black communities. There is no evidence of a decline in the prevalence of the disease but rather of an increase, including endemic syphilis affecting children. A nationwide survey is recommended to determine the magnitude of the problem and the need for a sustained treatment campaign.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001741:Black or African American; D044383:Black People; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013019:South Africa; D013587:Syphilis / Q000453:epidemiology*; D013588:Syphilis Serodiagnosis
vernacular_title: Positiewe serologiese toetse vir sifilis by swart laerskoolkinders van Bloemfontein. 'n Loodsstudie.