Syphilis TPA Treponema Pallidum Blood Test

Sample Report Test Code: 082345 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

Syphilis TPA Treponema Pallidum Test (Labcorp)

The Treponema Pallidum Antibodies (TPA) test is used to help determine if a person has been infected with Syphilis.  This test looks for specific antibodies to the bacteria which cause Syphilis.  TPA antibodies typically develop 3-4 weeks after infection and persist for the rest of a person's life, even after they have been successfully treated.  Because a TPA test is more specific and sensitive than other types of tests, it has a low incidence of false positives. 

In the event of a positive result, this TPA test includes several possible reflexes that will be performed at no additional cost.  These confirmatory reflex tests make the TPA test a thorough screening tool for Syphilis.

• If the initial TPA test is positive or equivocal, an RPR test will be performed. 
• If the RPR test is positive, a confirmatory RPR titer will be performed. 
• If the RPR is negative, a confirmatory TPA by EIA test will be performed.

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 specific 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.  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 who is sexually active.  The TPA test can be ordered as a routine screening or when someone has symptoms of Syphilis.  Pregnant women should receive Syphilis testing as infection can result in an increased risk of stillbirth and health complications for the infant.

Turnaround for this test is typically 2-4 business days.  Turnaround will be longer if additional time for reflex testing is necessary.

Where can I find a Syphilis TPA Treponema Pallidum test near me?

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