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Syphilis screening test (non-treponemal and treponemal combined)

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

This test checks for syphilis, a bacterial infection that can affect the heart, brain, and other organs. It’s performed as part of routine prenatal care to ensure both you and your baby stay healthy.

Quick summary

Syphilis screening helps detect early infection, allowing for timely treatment to prevent complications.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75164-4
Short code
NONTREPONEMALORTREPONEMALTESTWASPERFORMEDATFIRSTPRENATALVISIT
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 This Test Matters During Pregnancy

Syphilis can pose serious risks to your baby if not treated early, including stillbirth, premature birth, or developmental issues. Early detection through this test helps doctors monitor your health and plan appropriate care.

How the Test Works

The test includes two types of tests: a non-treponemal test (often a rapid plasma reagin, or RPR) and a treponemal test (often a fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption, or FTA-MS). These detect different aspects of syphilis infection in your blood.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small blood sample drawn, usually from your arm, similar to other routine blood tests. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results may be reported as positive, negative, or indeterminate. A positive result means syphilis antibodies are present, which may indicate infection. Follow-up testing or treatment may be recommended based on the results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Syphilis test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean for my baby?
A positive test result means syphilis antibodies were found in your blood. This could mean you have an active infection, which can be treated with antibiotics to reduce risks for your baby. Your healthcare provider will discuss next steps, including possible treatment and monitoring.
Will I need to take any special steps if my test is positive?
If your test is positive, your healthcare provider will likely prescribe antibiotics (like penicillin) to treat syphilis. You’ll need to complete the full course as directed. You’ll also be monitored closely during and after treatment to ensure it’s working properly.
Can syphilis be passed to my baby during pregnancy?
Yes, syphilis can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth. Early treatment can prevent this. If you have a positive result, your healthcare provider will work with you to manage the infection and protect your baby’s health.
  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