Home / Blood Tests / Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR)

Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR)

The Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test is a blood test used to screen for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The test works by detecting antibodies that the body produces in response to the infection. The RPR test is a non-specific test that detects both antibodies produced as a result of syphilis infection as well as antibodies produced in response to other diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, if the RPR test is positive, it is usually followed up with a more specific test, such as the Treponemal Antibody Test (TAT), to confirm the diagnosis of syphilis. The RPR test is commonly used in routine STD screening, as well as in prenatal care to screen for syphilis in pregnant women, as syphilis can be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy and cause serious complications. Treatment for syphilis involves antibiotics, and prompt treatment can prevent serious complications.

There is an additional £20 phlebotomy fee for every donation.