Syphilis RPR Blood Test

The Syphilis RPR (rapid plasma reagin) is the most commonly ordered screening for Syphilis.  This test looks for antibodies which the body develops in response to infection with Syphilis bacteria.

Syphilis is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.  It is a bacterial infection which is spread through contact with syphilis sores on a person’s body.  Syphilis is often called “the great imitator” because it can display symptoms which are common to a number of other conditions.  Syphilis infections are divided into several phases.  While there are symptoms which are commonly associated with certain phases, not everyone will display the same symptoms or any symptoms at all.  Identifying and treating syphilis early is key to avoiding long term health complications.

• Primary Phase: One or more painless sores, called chancres, appear around the infected area.  Depending on where the sores appear, they may be difficult to notice.  Sores will usually heal on their own after 3-6 weeks.
• Secondary Phase: Some people will have symptoms within several weeks of the initial sores clearing up.  These may include sore throat, fever, headache, body ache, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or a rash on the hands and feet.  The symptoms will typically clear up on their own.
• Latent Phase: The infection is still present, but will display no symptoms.  This stage can last for years and during this time the infection can begin to affect the heart, brain, nerves, bones, or other parts of the body.
• Tertiary Phase: Left untreated, Syphilis can cause serious health issues including death.  Some people may experience vision problems, dementia, numbness, or loss of muscle control.

Syphilis is highly contagious and testing is advisable for anyone who is sexually active.  Pregnant women should receive Syphilis testing as infection can result in an increased risk of stillbirth and health complications for the infant.

Due to its high level of sensitivity and quick turnaround, a Syphilis RPR test is typically ordered as an initial screening for Syphilis.  However, this test may cross-react with other diseases such as HIV, Malaria, Pneumonia, Lyme Disease or Lupus.  Because antibodies can linger in a person’s system, it is possible to have a positive result even after successful treatment.  It is recommended that a positive RPR test be followed up with an FTA-Abs or TPA test.   If someone has an FTA or TPA test done first and receives a positive result, then an RPR is recommended as a follow-up.  To order both the RPR and TPA tests together, see our Syphilis Comprehensive Panel.

Turnaround time for the Syphilis RPR test is typically 1 business day.

Lab LC Test Code: 006072

Chlamydia & Gonorrhea

This package includes the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea urine tests.  Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are 2 of the most common treatable STD’s.  Periodic testing is recommended for anyone who is sexually active even if they do not show any symptoms.  Many infections can go for long periods of time with no outward signs but can lead to serious health complications including infertility if left untreated.  This testing is usually ordered as a routine STD screen especially if a person is experiencing symptoms or has a partner who has tested positive.  Testing is also recommended after a person has been treated for Chlamydia or Gonorrhea to help ensure the treatment was effective.

For other testing options including more comprehensive STD packages, see out STD testing category.

Turnaround time for results is typically 2-3 business days.

Lab QD Test Code: 11363

Chlamydia, Gonorrhea & Trich Test

This package includes urine screenings for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomonas (Trich).  These screenings look for bacterial or parasitic infections in the genital area only.  These three infections are all typically spread through sexual contact.  While they often display no symptoms, some people may experience itching or pain in the genital area, burning during urination, or abnormal discharge.  Because they are often asymptomatic, and the symptoms they do display are very similar to each other, these STD’s can be difficult to diagnose without being tested.

For more information, please see the individual test listings.

STD testing is recommended for anyone who is sexually active, especially if they are experiencing symptoms which are indicative of infection.  Pregnant women are advised to get STD testing to avoid health complications for their infants.

Turnaround time for these tests is typically 3-7 business days.

Lab LC Test Code: 188078, 188086, 188052

Prenatal Basic Panel

The Prenatal Basic Panel includes several tests which are commonly ordered by expectant mothers during the first trimester of pregnancy. Testing can also be ordered prior to becoming pregnant to screen for possible health issues which may affect a pregnancy or the health of the infant.

This package includes:

• Blood Type (ABO Grouping & RHO Typing)
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) Immunity
• Hepatitis B Surface Antibody
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis RPR
• HIV 1/2 Antigen/Antibody (4th Generation)

For a more in-depth testing option, see our Prenatal Comprehensive Panel.

Turnaround time is typically 2-3 business days.

Lab LC Test Code: 006049, 188078, 188086, 006530, 083935, 058495, 006072

Recent Exposure Comprehensive

The Recent Exposure Comprehensive STD & HIV testing package looks for a number of commonly tested STD’s.  This package includes tests with the earliest detection period for those who may have had a recent exposure.  Because some tests may not be as accurate when they are taken early, it is often recommended to test again when more time has passed, especially for someone with a higher level of risk or if symptoms develop.

This package includes:

• HIV-1 RNA Qualitative
• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen
• Hepatitis C Antibody
• Herpes 1&2 IgM antibody
• Syphilis RPR
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea

For more testing options, please see our STD Testing Category.  Turnaround time is typically 3-5 business days.

Lab LC Test Code: 188078, 188086, 006510, 140659, 164806, 139350, 006072