RPR Test for Syphilis: Price, Purpose, Components & Report Interpretation

Test Overview

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like syphilis can often go unnoticed in their early stages, making timely testing crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. The RPR Test for Syphilis (Rapid Plasma Reagin Test) is a widely used blood test designed to detect antibodies produced in response to a Treponema pallidum infection, the bacterium responsible for syphilis. Also known as the VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) Test, this screening helps doctors identify both recent and past infections. It is particularly useful for individuals showing symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases or those who may have been exposed to an infected partner.

What is an RPR Test for Syphilis?

The RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) Test is a non-treponemal blood test that identifies antibodies produced by the body in response to cell damage caused by Treponema pallidum. Instead of detecting the bacteria directly, it measures the immune system’s reaction to the infection.

Doctors use this test to:

• Screen individuals for syphilis infection.
• Confirm active or past infection when used alongside a specific treponemal test.
• Monitor treatment progress by observing a decline in antibody levels (titres).

This test is commonly prescribed when symptoms such as genital ulcers, skin rashes, swollen lymph nodes, or unexplained fatigue appear. It is also part of routine antenatal screening to prevent congenital syphilis transmission from mother to child.

What is the RPR Test Price?

The RPR Test for Syphilis price may vary depending on several factors:

• City or Region: Prices in metropolitan cities may be slightly higher compared to smaller towns or rural areas.
• Laboratory Quality: NABL-accredited and advanced diagnostic centres often charge more for enhanced accuracy.
• Component Inclusion: Whether both the qualitative test and the optional titre are included.
• Home Sample Collection: Convenience-based home collection services can slightly increase the cost.
• Discounts & Health Packages: Platforms like Apollo 24|7 often offer discounted rates or bundled test packages for STI screenings.

Before booking, it’s recommended to check the latest RPR or VDRL test price near you on the Apollo 24|7 website or app for updated offers and location-specific rates.

What is the Purpose of an RPR Test?

The purpose of an RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) test is to enable early detection, accurate diagnosis, and effective monitoring of syphilis infection, a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This blood test identifies the presence of antibodies produced by the body in response to the infection rather than the bacteria itself, making it an important tool in both screening and follow-up care. Doctors commonly recommend the RPR test for the following reasons:

• Early Detection of Syphilis: The RPR test helps detect syphilis during its early stages, often before visible symptoms like sores or rashes appear. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment, preventing the infection from progressing to more severe stages that can cause long-term damage.
• Screening High-Risk Individuals: It is frequently advised for individuals who have multiple sexual partners, a history of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or engage in unprotected sexual activity. Regular screening in such cases is vital for curbing transmission and maintaining sexual health.
• Confirming Infection in Symptomatic Individuals: If a person exhibits symptoms suggestive of syphilis, such as genital ulcers, rashes, or swollen lymph nodes, the RPR test can help confirm whether Treponema pallidum is the cause.
• Monitoring Treatment Effectiveness: The RPR test is also used to evaluate how well a person is responding to syphilis treatment. A gradual decline in antibody levels after therapy indicates successful treatment and recovery, whereas persistently high levels may suggest incomplete response or reinfection.
• Preventing Congenital Syphilis: In antenatal care, the RPR test plays a crucial role in screening pregnant women. Detecting and treating syphilis early in pregnancy helps prevent congenital syphilis, a serious condition where the infection is transmitted from mother to baby.

Who Should Get an RPR Test for Syphilis Done?

You should consider getting an RPR or VDRL test if you fall into any of the following categories:

• Individuals showing symptoms such as genital sores, rashes on the body or palms, or swollen lymph nodes.
• People who have had unprotected sexual contact or suspect exposure to an STI.
• Pregnant women as part of routine prenatal screening.
• Individuals diagnosed with another STI (e.g., HIV, gonorrhoea) as co-infections are common.
• Those recommended by their doctor for a comprehensive sexual health check-up.
• Partners of people who have recently tested positive for syphilis.

Components of an RPR Test for Syphilis

The RPR Test for Syphilis consists of two components, each serving a distinct purpose in diagnosis and monitoring:

1. RPR (VDRL) Qualitative – Serum:

• Determines whether syphilis antibodies are present in the blood.
• A reactive result suggests possible infection and requires confirmation via a specific treponemal test (e.g., TPHA or FTA-ABS).
• A non-reactive result usually means no active infection, though early stages may still test negative.

2. Titer (Optional):

• Conducted when the qualitative test shows a positive result.
• Measures antibody concentration in the blood, expressed as ratios (e.g., 1:2, 1:8, 1:32).
• Helps track disease progression and response to treatment — decreasing titres after therapy indicate effective recovery.

Understanding the RPR Test Report

After your sample is processed, the report will show results for both components:

High/Reactive Values May Indicate:

• Current or recent syphilis infection.
• Untreated or partially treated infection.
• Cross-reactivity with certain other infections (rarely).
• Low/Non-reactive Values May Indicate:
• No infection.
• Very early infection (before antibodies develop).
• Successfully treated past infection.
• Preparation and Procedure for RPR Test for Syphilis

There are several reasons your doctor might recommend this test. If you’ve been advised to undergo an RPR test, it’s important to know how to prepare and what to expect during the procedure.

A. How is the RPR Test Conducted?

• Preparation: A healthcare professional cleans the area (usually inside of your elbow) with an antiseptic solution to maintain sterility.
  Blood Draw: A sterile needle is inserted into a vein, and a small amount of blood is collected into a test tube.
• Post-Procedure: The puncture site is bandaged. The process is simple, quick, and usually painless.

Your blood sample is then analysed in a laboratory using a Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) flocculation technique, a standard screening method for syphilis. In this process, your serum is mixed with a reagent containing tiny particles of cardiolipin and cholesterol. If syphilis antibodies (reagins) are present, they bind to these particles and form visible clumps, known as flocculation. The presence and extent of this reaction help determine whether the test result is reactive (positive) or non-reactive (negative). In reactive cases, a quantitative RPR (Titer test) may also be performed to measure antibody concentration and monitor treatment progress.

B. Is Fasting Required for the Test?

No fasting or special preparation is needed for the RPR test. You can eat and drink as usual unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.

C. When Should the Test Be Done?

The RPR test can be taken at any time of day. Doctors may recommend it when syphilis symptoms appear or as part of routine STI screening. Pregnant women typically undergo this test during their first prenatal visit.

D. How Often Should the Test Be Done?

If you are undergoing treatment for syphilis, doctors may advise repeat RPR titres every 3 to 6 months to monitor your progress. For high-risk individuals, routine screening once a year is advisable.

Booking an RPR Test for Syphilis Online & Checking Reports

Booking your RPR Test for Syphilis and viewing reports is simple through Apollo 24|7.

A. Steps to Schedule the Test on Apollo 24|7

Here are the steps to schedule RPR test:

• Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile app and select “Lab Tests.”
• Search for RPR Test for Syphilis or VDRL Test.
• Check the latest price and click on ‘Book Now’.
• Choose your preferred location and time slot for home collection or lab visit.
• Confirm your booking and make a secure online payment.
• Receive an SMS confirmation and reminders about your appointment.

B. How to Access Your RPR Test Results Online?

Here are the steps to access your RPR Test results online:

• Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account after sample collection.
• Go to the ‘Reports’ or ‘My Health Records’ section.
• Click on your RPR Test for Syphilis result to view or download your detailed report.
• Reports are typically available within 24 to 48 hours of sample collection.

Conclusion

The RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) Test for Syphilis is a vital diagnostic tool that enables early detection and effective monitoring of syphilis infection. By identifying antibodies in the blood, this test allows for timely treatment, preventing serious complications such as neurosyphilis, cardiovascular damage, and congenital transmission. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms, planning a routine health check, or undergoing prenatal screening, the RPR Test provides reliable insights into your sexual health. Book your test today through Apollo 24|7 and take a proactive step toward safeguarding your well-being and your partner’s health.