What Is RPR Test?
Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test is a blood test which is used to detect syphilis, a STI caused by the Treponema Pallidum. The test identifies antibodies produced when the immune system detects the infection. Syphilis is a serious condition that, if left untreated can lead to severe neurological and cardiovascular issues. The RPR test does not detect the bacteria causing the infection but rather the immune response. The bacteria is identified by a more specific test, such as TPPA (Treponema Pallidum Particle Agglutination) test.
Doctors recommend this test for individuals who have unprotected sex, exhibit symptoms of syphilis or undergo routine STI screening. Pregnant women are also advised to take this test to prevent congenital syphilis transmission to their baby.
How is the Test Performed?
Sample Collection
The test requires a small blood sample usually collected from a vein in the arm.
Lab Analysis
In the lab, the blood is tested using the RPR method which involves mixing the sample with a cardiolipin-cholesterol-lecithin antigen. If antibodies are present the mixture forms clumps indicating a positive result. If the test result is positive a confirmatory test is conducted to differentiate between syphilis and other conditions that might cause false-positive results.
Result
Results are usually available in a few days to one week.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
Syphilis is a STI and has the following symptoms:
- Painless sores on penis, anus or mouth
- Skin rashes on hands and feet
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fatigue and muscle aches
- Fever and flu like symptoms
- Vaginal sores or ulcers
- Congenital syphilis in newborns (rash, fever, bone deformities)
- Neurological symptoms in elderly
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
- Negative – A non-reactive result indicates no active syphilis infection.
- Positive – A reactive result that require further confirmation.
** Normal levels are dependent on a number of factors including age, gender, testing method and health condition of patient etc. Result interpretation should be done by a qualified doctor or healthcare professional.**
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
A reactive RPR test requires confirmation with a Treponema test such as TPPA or FTA-ABS. If confirmed the doctor will prescribe antibiotics, typically penicillin to treat the infection. The treatment plan depends on the stage of syphilis which is why it is highly important to get tested as soon as the onset of symptoms.
Early-stage syphilis –A single dose of penicillin.
Late-stage syphilis –Multiple doses over several weeks.
Further testing may include:
- Repeat RPR tests to monitor treatment effectiveness.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis if neurosyphilis is suspected.
