Compare - Syphilis Test (EW)

The Compare - Syphilis Test (EW) panel contains 2 tests with 2 biomarkers.

Why pay $69 for Everlywell's Syphilis finger prick test kit when you can experience the convenience and affordablity of a Syphilis lab test with Ulta Lab Tests - compare now and save!

Brief Description: The Syphilis Lab Test is a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation that includes two main markers: the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) with Reflex to Titer and the Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption (FTA-ABS) test. This test is crucial for the detection and confirmation of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

IMPORTANT A positive RPR screen must be followed by a specific treponemal antibody test (e.g., FTA-ABS): A positive result on the second method confirms the screening result and the affected person is diagnosed with syphilis. A negative result on the treponemal test may mean that the initial RPR test was falsely positive. Further testing and investigation may be done to determine the cause of the false positive.

Limitations False-positive results have been associated in patients with infections, pregnancy, autoimmune disease, old age, Gaucher disease, and malignancy.

When and Why the Syphilis Lab Test May Be Ordered

Timing of the Test: The Syphilis Lab Test is typically ordered when there is a suspicion of syphilis infection or as part of routine screening for STIs, especially in high-risk populations.

Reasons for Ordering the Test:

1. Symptoms: When a person presents with symptoms or signs suggestive of syphilis, such as genital sores, skin rashes, or mucous membrane lesions, healthcare providers may order this test to confirm the diagnosis.

2. Routine Screening: In some cases, syphilis screening is part of routine STI testing, especially for sexually active individuals, pregnant women, or those at higher risk of infection due to multiple sexual partners or drug use.

3. Prenatal Screening: Pregnant women are often screened for syphilis during pregnancy to prevent the transmission of the infection to the unborn baby, as congenital syphilis can have serious health consequences.

4. Contact with Infected Individuals: If someone has had sexual contact with a person diagnosed with syphilis, healthcare providers may recommend testing to determine if they have contracted the infection.

5. Follow-up: For individuals who have been previously diagnosed and treated for syphilis, follow-up testing may be ordered to ensure the effectiveness of treatment and confirm that the infection has been cured.

What the Syphilis Lab Test Checks For

The Syphilis Lab Test checks for the presence of antibodies and markers specific to syphilis:

Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) with Reflex to Titer: The RPR test is a non-specific screening test that detects antibodies in the blood. A reactive RPR result suggests the possibility of syphilis infection. If the RPR is reactive, the reflex to titer involves further testing to quantify the antibody levels, which can help assess the stage of the infection.

Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption (FTA-ABS): The FTA-ABS test is a specific and confirmatory test that detects antibodies to Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis. A positive FTA-ABS result confirms the presence of syphilis antibodies in the blood, confirming syphilis infection.

How Health Care Providers Use the Results of the Syphilis Lab Test

Healthcare providers use the results of the Syphilis Lab Test in the following ways:

1. Diagnosis Confirmation: A positive FTA-ABS result confirms the diagnosis of syphilis, while the RPR titer helps assess the stage and severity of the infection.

2. Treatment Guidance: Depending on the stage of syphilis and the RPR titer, healthcare providers determine the appropriate treatment regimen, which typically involves antibiotics such as penicillin.

3. Contact Tracing: If a patient is diagnosed with syphilis, healthcare providers may initiate contact tracing to identify and test sexual partners who may also be at risk of infection.

4. Pregnancy Management: In pregnant women, a positive syphilis test result can prompt immediate treatment to prevent the transmission of the infection to the unborn baby.

5. Follow-up Testing: Patients who have been treated for syphilis are typically monitored with follow-up testing to ensure the effectiveness of treatment and that the infection has been cured.

In summary, the Syphilis Lab Test is essential for diagnosing syphilis, guiding treatment decisions, preventing transmission, and ensuring the health and well-being of affected individuals. Early detection and treatment are crucial to effectively manage this sexually transmitted infection.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.