Name of the Procedure:

Antibody, Treponema pallidum, total and rapid plasma reagin (RPR), immunoassay, qualitative

Summary

This procedure involves blood tests used to screen for syphilis. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The tests detect antibodies produced in response to the infection.

Purpose

• To diagnose or confirm a syphilis infection.
• To monitor the effectiveness of treatment for syphilis.

Indications

• Symptoms of syphilis (e.g., sores, rash, fever).
• A positive initial screening test for syphilis.
• Routine screening for pregnant women or individuals with a high risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Preparation

• No specific preparation is typically required.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle.
2. The blood sample is sent to a laboratory.
3. In the lab, the sample is tested using immunoassay techniques to detect antibodies against Treponema pallidum.
4. Another test, the rapid plasma reagin (RPR), is performed to check for non-specific antibodies that indicate an active syphilis infection.

Duration

The blood draw takes about 5 to 15 minutes. Results from the lab can typically be available within a few days.

Setting

The blood sample is usually collected in a healthcare provider’s office, clinic, or laboratory.

Personnel

A phlebotomist or nurse will draw the blood sample. Lab technicians will perform the tests in a laboratory.

Risks and Complications

• Minor discomfort or bruising at the site where the blood is drawn.
• Rarely, infection or excessive bleeding.

Benefits

• Early detection and diagnosis of syphilis.
• Timely treatment can prevent severe health complications associated with untreated syphilis.

Recovery

• No specific recovery process is required after the blood draw.
• Follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• Other blood tests for syphilis, such as the fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-ABS) test.

  Pros:

• Different tests might offer additional confirmation if results are unclear.

Cons:

• Some alternative tests may be more expensive or take longer to provide results.

Patient Experience

• You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted to draw blood.
• Minor bruising or soreness at the site of the needle insertion is possible but typically resolves quickly.