RPR Blood Test

Sample Report Test Code: 012005 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

Syphilis RPR Blood Test (Labcorp)

What is an RPR lab test?

The Syphilis RPR test (rapid plasma reagin) is a screening test for the bacterial infection that causes Syphilis.  An RPR test screens for antibodies to the bacteria that causes syphilis, Treponema pallidum.

Syphilis is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.  It is a bacterial infection that is spread through contact with syphilis sores on a person's body.  Syphilis is often called “the great imitator” because it can display symptoms that are common to a number of other conditions.  Syphilis infections are divided into several phases.  While there are symptoms that are commonly associated with certain phases, not everyone will display the same symptoms or any symptoms at all.  Identifying and treating syphilis early is key to avoiding long-term health complications.

• Primary Phase: One or more painless sores, called chancres, appear around the infected area.  Depending on where the sores appear, they may be difficult to notice.  Sores will usually heal on their own after 3-6 weeks.
• Secondary Phase: Some people will have symptoms within several weeks of the initial sores clearing up.  These may include sore throat, fever, headache, body ache, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or a rash on the hands and feet.  The symptoms will typically clear up on their own. 
• Latent Phase: The infection is still present, but will display no symptoms.  This stage can last for years and during this time the infection can begin to affect the heart, brain, nerves, bones, or other parts of the body.
• Tertiary Phase: Left untreated, Syphilis can cause serious health issues including death.  Some people may experience vision problems, dementia, numbness, or loss of muscle control.

Syphilis is highly contagious and testing is advisable for anyone sexually active.  Pregnant women should receive Syphilis testing as infection can result in an increased risk of stillbirth and health complications for the infant.

What does a positive RPR blood test mean?

A Syphilis blood test with a positive RPR result by itself is not sufficient to indicate a syphilis infection.  If the initial RPR test has a positive result, an RPR titer and a Treponema Pallidum Antibody (TPA) test will automatically be performed at no additional cost.  Confirmatory testing is intended to minimize the incidence of false positive results.  

Please note that this test for syphilis may miss early and late cases of syphilis. Always consult a healthcare provider if you have symptoms or are concerned about an exposure.

How common are false positive syphilis tests?

A false positive may occur when someone has been successfully treated for syphilis but still has detectable antibodies in their system.  False positives can also result from cross-reactivity with other conditions such as tuberculosis, endocarditis, systemic lupus erythematosus, leprosy, brucellosis, atypical pneumonia, typhus, yaws, pinta, pregnancy, and recent vaccinations including smallpox and COVID-19. 

What does a non-reactive Syphilis test mean?

A negative RPR test may not be able to rule out a Syphilis infection definitively.  A follow-up treponemal test such as the Syphilis TPA is recommended to confirm a negative result, especially if you are experiencing symptoms.

How long does a syphilis RPR blood test take?

Turnaround time for the Syphilis RPR test is typically 1-2 business days.  Additional time may be necessary if confirmatory testing is performed.

Where can I find a Syphilis RPR test near me?

Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.