Syphilis Test

Syphilis Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) Test with Reflex to Quantitative RPR and Confirmatory TP-PA

Tell me about this test.

This blood test finds the antibodies the body makes to fight syphilis. A positive test could indicate a current or previous infection. The blood test might not find antibodies for up to three months after exposure to the bacteria. If you think you may have been exposed to syphilis, getting another test within 6 months is recommended for confirmation. The antibodies stay in the body for years, so if you have had syphilis before and were treated, your test results could still be positive. To avoid being treated again, let your doctor know about your previous infection and/or treatment.

What kind of sample is required?

A blood sample is drawn.

Any preparation?

None.

What do I have to know about the results?

A positive test indicates that you have either a current or past infection. However, a negative test does not always mean that you do not have syphilis. It may take up to 3 months after exposure to syphilis for antibodies to be detected. If you are concerned you have been exposed and test negative, you must test again in 3 months for confirmation.