A known history of syphilis may help to indicate syphilis as the cause of the stroke.
Tests may be used to confirm syphilis as the cause of the stroke, including:
- Venereal disease research laboratory test (VDRL) and rapid plasma reagin test (RPR) blood tests for antibodies. If tests are positive, other antibody tests are done to confirm the diagnosis.
- CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) examination, showing positive CSF VDRL test, increased number of white blood cells, increased protein level, increased pressure of the fluid, or other abnormality.
The location and extent of the area of the brain involved in the stroke may be determined by:
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