RPR (Diagnosis) with Reflex to Titer and Confirmatory Testing
The RPR (Diagnosis) with Reflex to Titer and Confirmatory Testing screens for syphilis by detecting antibodies to the Treponema pallidum bacterium and, if reactive, to further quantify antibody levels and confirm the diagnosis through additional testing.
Methodology:
Flocculation
Preparation:
No special preparation is required.
Test Results:
1-2 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Details:
False positive results may occur due to systemic lupus erythematosus, leprosy, brucellosis, atypical pneumonia, typhus, yaws, pinta, or pregnancy. Monitoring of RPR is helpful in assessing effectiveness of therapy.
Walk-In Lab is prohibited from selling Quest tests to residents in the following states:AZ, NY, NJ, RI
What is the purpose of this test?
The RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) test is a screening test used to detect syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. The RPR test works by detecting antibodies in the blood that are produced in response to the infection.
If the RPR test is positive, a reflex to titer and confirmatory testing is usually done. The titer test measures the level of antibodies in the blood, which can help determine the stage of the infection and guide treatment decisions. Confirmatory testing, such as the treponemal-specific test, is used to confirm the diagnosis of syphilis and differentiate it from other conditions that can cause false-positive RPR results.
Overall, the purpose of the RPR with reflex to titer and confirmatory testing is to accurately diagnose syphilis and guide appropriate treatment to prevent further complications.
Who would benefit from this test?
RPR (Diagnosis) with Reflex to Titer and Confirmatory Testing is beneficial to:
- Individuals who may have been exposed to syphilis
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with HIV
- Individuals who engage in high-risk sexual behaviors
- Individuals who are undergoing treatment for syphilis
- Healthcare providers who are involved in the diagnosis and treatment of syphilis
When should I order RPR (Diagnosis) with Reflex to Titer and Confirmatory Testing?
The RPR test with reflex to titer and confirmatory testing should be ordered for patients exhibiting the following symptoms:
- Unexplained fever
- Skin rash or sores
- Joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Weight loss
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Eye redness, pain, or blurred vision
It's important to note that these symptoms can be indicative of a number of different conditions, and a positive RPR test does not necessarily mean that a patient has syphilis. Confirmatory testing should always be performed to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
