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Syphilis screening test (RPR/TPPA) performed at delivery

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for syphilis, a bacterial infection that can affect the skin, nervous system, or other organs. It’s done to ensure you and your baby are healthy before delivery.

Quick summary

Syphilis screening helps prevent complications for both you and your baby.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75166-9
Short code
NONTREPONEMALORTREPONEMALTESTWASPERFORMEDATDELIVERY
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
cdc-cs
CPT
86430
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Was This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider performed this test to screen for syphilis during pregnancy. Syphilis can be passed from mother to baby, so early detection is crucial for treatment and prevention of serious health risks.

What Does This Test Measure?

The test detects antibodies to *Treponema pallidum* (the bacteria causing syphilis) and non-treponemal markers (like RPR). These antibodies appear in your blood if you’ve been exposed to the infection.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample was taken from your arm. The sample was tested using a combination of non-treponemal (rapid plasma reagin) and treponemal (e.g., TP-PA) assays to identify syphilis antibodies.

What Are the Next Steps?

If the test result is positive, your provider will discuss next steps, which may include additional testing or treatment. If negative, you’ll likely receive follow-up testing later in your pregnancy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Syphilis during pregnancy can cause severe complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital syphilis in the baby. Early treatment with antibiotics can prevent these risks.

Short name

Syphilis blood test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your blood test detected syphilis antibodies, indicating past or current infection. Your provider will work with you to determine the best course of action, which may include treatment or further testing.
Will I need to take any special precautions?
If you’re diagnosed with syphilis, your provider will prescribe antibiotics to treat you. You’ll also need to avoid sexual contact until fully treated, and your partner may need testing and treatment to prevent spreading the infection.
Can syphilis be treated if detected at delivery?
Yes, syphilis can be effectively treated with antibiotics even during pregnancy. Early treatment helps ensure a healthy outcome for both you and your baby. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy