What Is A TPHA Test?
TPHA Test is a blood test used to diagnose syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema Pallidum. The test detects specific antibodies produced by the immune system when it detects the bacteria. Syphilis can progress through multiple stages if it is undetected and left untreated, leading to severe and irreversible complications such as damage to heart, brain and other organs.
TPHA test is a confirmatory test after a positive screening test such as the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) or Veneral Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test. The test is highly specific to syphilis and helps distinguish between active or past infections. The test is crucial for pregnant women as untreated syphilis can lead to congenital syphilis, causing still birth, neonatal death or severe development issues in the baby. It is also recommended for people who are at high risk of syphilis transmission
How is the Test Performed?
Sample Collection
TPHA test requires a blood sample.
Lab Analysis
In the lab, the blood is mixed with red blood cells coated with Treponema pallidum antigens. If antibodies against the bacterium are present in the blood, they will bind to the antigens, causing the red blood cells to clump together (hemagglutination). This reaction indicates a positive result. The test is highly sensitive and specific, making it a reliable tool for diagnosing syphilis.
Turnaround Time
Results are normally available in a few days.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
The TPHA test may be recommended if an individual exhibits symptoms of syphilis or is at risk of infection. Symptoms vary depending on the stage of the disease:
Primary Syphilis (Early Stage)
- Painless sores (chancres) on the genitals, mouth or rectum
- Swollen lymph nodes near the sore
Secondary Syphilis
- Skin rashes (often on palms and soles)
- Fever, fatigue and muscle aches
- Sore throat and swollen lymph nodes
Tertiary Syphilis (Late Stage)
- Severe damage to the heart, brain, nerves or other organs
- Vision or hearing loss
- Memory problems or mental confusion
Congenital Syphilis (in Newborns)
- Jaundice
- Bone deformities
- Developmental delays
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
The TPHA test results are typically reported as positive or negative.
Normal (Negative) –No antibodies detected, indicating no current or past infection.
Abnormal (Positive) –Antibodies detected, suggesting a current or past syphilis infection.
There are no specific normal ranges for men and women, as the interpretation is the same for both genders.
** 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 positive TPHA test result indicates the presence of antibodies against Treponema Pallidum, suggesting an active or past syphilis infection. Further testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of infection. Further testing may include additional blood tests such as RPR or VDRL to assess the level of antibodies and monitor treatment progress.
In case of confirmation of syphilis, treatment typically involves antibiotics such as penicillin. The treatment plan is tailored based on the stage of the infection and patient’s overall health. Follow up testing is also very important and recommended to ensure the infection has been successfully treated.
- If CAH is diagnosed, treatment often involves hormone replacement therapy to correct the imbalance of cortisol and aldosterone.
- Ongoing monitoring for individuals diagnosed with CAH or other adrenal gland disorders is necessary to ensure hormonal balance.
