The Syphilis Antibodies test detects specific IgG/IgM antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the spirochete causing syphilis, via automated chemiluminescent immunoassay (CIA) or particle agglutination (TP-PA)
Reactive results reflex to quantitative RPR for active infection assessment using the reverse sequence algorithm.
Indications of Syphilis Antibodies (Treponema pallidum Abs)
STI screening in pregnancy, high-risk sexual exposure, HIV patients, blood donors; diagnostic workup of chancre, rash, neurosyphilis symptoms (headache, vision loss), or latent syphilis suspicion
Treatment monitoring (declining RPR titers); congenital syphilis evaluation in neonates.
Patient Preparation/Instructions
No fasting required; collect 3-5 mL serum in SST/red-top tube (avoid hemolysis).
Avoid antibiotics within 2 weeks if possible; disclose HIV status, prior syphilis, pregnancy; paired acute/convalescent samples optimal for primary syphilis.
Typical Reference Values
Treponemal screen: Non-reactive/Negative; Reactive/Positive (lifetime persistence post-infection/treatment).
RPR reflex: <1:8 Negative
≥1:8 Positive (active/recent)
4-fold titer decline post-treatment.
Equivocal: Retest. Lab-specific ranges apply.
Report Turnaround
Results generally ready in 2 days
Ordering via Labtestzote (Nairobi)
Go to labtestzote.com.
Search “Syphilis Antibodies” or “Treponema pallidum Abs” and add to cartPay online during checkout.
