What are the recommended screening guidelines for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in asymptomatic patients?

Recommended screening guidelines for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in asymptomatic patients:

• Offer a full sexual health screen including testing for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, as people at risk of one STI are often at risk of others.
• Screening should be offered especially to people at higher risk of STIs, including those with new or multiple sexual partners, men who have sex with men, and people from high prevalence groups.
• Remote self-sampling kits should be offered as an alternative to clinic attendance for asymptomatic individuals, ensuring the kits test for the same infections as clinic-based testing.
• Self-sampling kits should be accessible, inclusive, and meet NHS Accessible Information Standard, with options to order online or by phone and availability through outreach or community services.
• Local sexual health services should provide clear information on available testing options and ensure pathways for referral and follow-up are in place.
• For syphilis, serological screening using treponemal enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or chemiluminescent assay (CLIA) is recommended as the screening test of choice.
• HIV testing should be routinely offered as part of the STI screen, with emphasis on confidentiality, non-judgemental approach, and clear referral pathways for positive results.

These recommendations aim to improve uptake and frequency of STI testing in asymptomatic individuals, reduce barriers to access, and ensure timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent onward transmission.

References: ¹,²,³