Skip to main content
Your session has expired. Reloading...

Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

STD

Syphilis (VDRL)

The Syphilis RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) test is a non-treponemal screening test that detects antibodies produced in response to syphilis infection. The test measures disease activity and can be used to monitor treatment effectiveness through changes in titre levels.

What It Measures

This test detects non-treponemal antibodies (reagin) that the body produces in response to cellular damage caused by Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. The result is reported as a titre, which reflects the level of antibody activity.

A rising titre may indicate active or recent infection, while a declining titre after treatment suggests successful therapy. It is important to note that the RPR test can occasionally produce false positive results due to other conditions, which is why positive results are confirmed with a treponemal-specific test.

Why It Matters

Syphilis progresses through distinct stages if left untreated, potentially leading to serious complications affecting the heart, brain, and nervous system. Early detection and treatment with antibiotics, typically penicillin, is highly effective and can prevent progression to later stages.

The RPR test is particularly valuable for monitoring treatment response, as titres should decline after successful treatment. Regular monitoring helps healthcare providers assess whether the infection has been adequately treated.

When to Test

Testing is recommended for sexually active individuals with potential syphilis exposure, those with symptoms such as painless sores (chancres), rashes, or unexplained neurological symptoms. Screening is also routinely performed during pregnancy.

Regular screening may be advised for individuals at higher risk, including men who have sex with men and individuals with HIV. The RPR test is also used for follow-up monitoring after syphilis treatment to confirm successful cure.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Non-reactive result indicates no syphilis infection. Continue safe sexual practices.

If High

Reactive result requires confirmation testing and antibiotic treatment. Consult with infectious disease specialist or STD clinic.

Female

If Low

Non-reactive result indicates no syphilis infection. Continue safe sexual practices.

If High

Reactive result requires confirmation testing and antibiotic treatment. Consult with infectious disease specialist or STD clinic.

Lifestyle Tips

Consistent condom use reduces the risk of syphilis transmission, although sores can occur in areas not covered by condoms. Regular STI screening is essential, particularly for those at higher risk. Reducing the number of sexual partners also lowers exposure risk.

If diagnosed with syphilis, complete the full course of treatment as prescribed and attend all follow-up appointments for titre monitoring. Notify recent sexual partners so they can be tested and treated. Avoid sexual contact until treatment is complete and your healthcare provider confirms it is safe to resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the RPR test give a false positive?
Yes, false positive results can occur with conditions such as autoimmune diseases, certain infections, pregnancy, or intravenous drug use. This is why positive RPR results are always confirmed with a treponemal-specific test such as the FTA-ABS or TP-PA.
What do RPR titre levels mean?
The titre reflects the level of antibody activity. Higher titres generally indicate more active infection. After treatment, a fourfold decrease in titre is considered evidence of successful treatment. Your healthcare provider will interpret your specific results.
Can syphilis come back after treatment?
Successful treatment cures syphilis, but it does not provide immunity. You can be reinfected through new exposure. Regular screening and safer sex practices remain important even after successful treatment.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.