Syphilis RPR Blood Test

Description:

Syphilis RPR Blood Test

The Syphilis RPR (rapid plasma reagin) is the most commonly ordered screening for Syphilis.  This test looks for antibodies in the bloodstream which the body develops in response to infection with Syphilis bacteria. 

Syphilis is a bacterial infection spread through skin to skin contact with an infected area including during sexual contact.  Syphilis is often called “the great imitator” because it can display symptoms which are common to a number of other conditions.  Syphilis can display different symptoms at different stages of infection.  However, these symptoms are not universal and some may appear at different times for different people or not at all.  Initial infections are often characterized by the appearance of one or more round, painless sores around the infected area.  Other symptoms can include a rash which often appears on the hands or feet, fever, swollen glands, sore throat, headaches, muscle aches, weight loss, and fatigue.  It is common for Syphilis to go years without displaying any symptoms.  If left untreated, Syphilis can damage the brain, nerves, eyes, liver, and bones. 

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

The Syphilis RPR test is typically ordered as an initial screening for Syphilis or as a followup to a Syphilis TPA Test.  A positive result for this test is typically followed up with a Syphilis FTA-Abs test.  An RPR test can also be used as a follow-up to treatment to see if a person’s antibody levels have gone down.  Results for this test are quantitative and may show a low positive value, even after effective treatment.  To order both the RPR and TPA tests together, see our Syphilis Comprehensive Panel. 

False-positive results have been associated with infections, pregnancy, autoimmune disease, old age, Gaucher disease, and malignancy. This is a non-treponemal screening test for syphilis. False positive results may occur due to systemic lupus erythematosus, leprosy, brucellosis, atypical pneumonia, typhus, yaws, pinta, or pregnancy. Monitoring of RPR is helpful in assessing effectiveness of therapy.

Turnaround time for the Syphilis RPR test is typically 1 business day.