Does a reactive RPR mean you have syphilis?
A reactive RPR test result is considered abnormal because antibodies were detected. This could either indicate a current syphilis infection, or the presence of a past infection that has been successfully treated.
What does syphilis RPR mean?
Definition. RPR (rapid plasma reagin) is a screening test for syphilis . It measures substances (proteins) called antibodies that are present in the blood of people who may have the disease.
What does a reactive RPR indicate?
If the screening assay is positive, the sample is reflexed to a RPR assay, which, if positive, is reported with a titer and is indicative of active or recent syphilis infection. If the RPR is negative, the sample is reflexed to a second treponemal assay, such as the T pallidum particle agglutination (TP-PA) assay.
What is positive RPR titer?
A positive titer with a VDRL or RPR indicates active syphilis and follow-up serologic testing is performed to monitor treatment response. With this new testing algorithm that uses the treponemal test first, some patients may test positive for a treponemal test but test negative with a nontreponemal test.
What to do if your RPR test is positive for syphilis?
If your RPR test is positive, you will need more tests to confirm that you have syphilis. One of the most common tests used to confirm a syphilis diagnosis is the T. pallidum enzyme immunoassay. Other tests may include: These tests will generally rule out a false-positive result.
How does the rapid plasma reagin ( RPR ) test work?
RPR test, syphilis test The rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test is a blood test that looks for antibodies to syphilis. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that first causes symptoms common to many other illnesses. In addition, people who have early-stage syphilis may have sores (lesions).
What are the symptoms of a blood test for syphilis?
The rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test is a blood test that looks for antibodies to syphilis. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that first causes symptoms common to many other illnesses. Early symptoms include rash, fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, and sore throat.
Can a RPR test give a negative result?
Even if the RPR test gives a negative result, a doctor may repeat the test after a few weeks. Other infections can influence the results of an RPR test if they cause the body to produce similar antibodies to syphilis.