Syphilis Tests

Microhemagglutination assay (MHA-TP), (Syphilis Test), Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) Test, (Syphilis Test), Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) Test, (Syphilis Test)

Why It Is Done

A test for syphilis is done to:

• Screen for syphilis or monitor treatment for a syphilis infection. Screening tests help your doctor look for a certain disease or condition before any symptoms appear. This increases the chance of finding the infection when it can be cured or treated to avoid long-term problems.
  • Some states require the VDRL screening test before a couple can obtain a marriage license.
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend that all pregnant women be screened for syphilis early in pregnancy.
• Confirm that a syphilis infection is present.

A syphilis infection can spread through the bloodstream to all parts of the body. If not treated, syphilis can cause severe heart disease, brain damage, spinal cord damage, blindness, and death.

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Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW	Last Updated: October 2, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
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