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Syphilis

Also known as: Venereal disease research laboratory; VDRL; Rapid plasma reagin; RPR; Fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test; FTA-ABS; Treponema pallidum particle agglutination assay; TPPA; Microhemagglutination assay; MHA-TP; Darkfield microscopy
Formal name: Syphilis detection test
Related tests: Hepatitis C; HIV antibody test

Common Questions

1.  How long does it take to get results from a syphilis test?

If the specimen is examined microscopically by the doctor, then results could be immediately available. Otherwise, blood and CSF tests are sent to a laboratory and results could take three to five days.

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2.  How can syphilis be prevented?

For information on prevention, visit the American Social Health Association's STD/STI Prevention Tips.

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