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Blood test

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RPR

Alternative Names: Rapid plasma reagin Normal Values: The screening test is most valuable in middle stage syphilis, as it will most likely be positive during this time. During early and late stage syphilis, the test may be falsely negative. Additional testing may be needed before ruling out syphilis. What abnormal results mean: Text Continues Below A positive test result may indicate underlying syphilis. If the screening test is positive, the next step is to confirm the diagnosis with a more specific test for syphilis such as FTA-ABS. The FTA-ABS will help distinguish between syphilis and other infections. The RPR test's ability to detect syphilis depends on the stage of the disease. The test's sensitivity to detect syphilis nears 100% during the middle stages; it is less sensitive during the earlier and later stages. The following conditions may cause a false positive test: HIV Lyme disease Certain types of pneumonia Malaria Systemic lupus erythematosus References: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for Syphilis Infection: Recommendation Statement. Ann Fam Med 2004; 2: 362-365.

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