Test library
Treponema Pallidum Antibody Test
The treponemal syphilis test detects antibodies specifically directed at Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. It is used to confirm a reactive screening test and to support a diagnosis.
Order Treponemal Syphilis Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Treponemal Syphilis Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $198
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The treponemal syphilis test is a blood test that looks for antibodies specifically aimed at Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. Unlike nontreponemal tests, which detect general infection-related antibodies, a treponemal assay targets the organism itself. It is usually ordered to confirm a reactive screening result or as part of a syphilis workup. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the result with other tests and the person's history.
What this test measures
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can develop in stages and may produce few or no obvious symptoms for long periods. Two broad categories of blood tests are used: nontreponemal tests, such as the RPR, which measure antibodies released during infection, and treponemal tests, which detect antibodies that bind Treponema pallidum directly. The two types answer slightly different questions.
The treponemal test requires a blood sample. It is commonly used as a confirmatory step after a reactive nontreponemal screen, and in some testing algorithms it is used first. Treponemal tests generally remain reactive for life, even after successful treatment, so they are better at showing that infection has occurred than at measuring current activity. Nontreponemal titers are used to follow activity over time.
The test may be ordered when screening suggests infection, when symptoms raise concern, or during a broader sexual health evaluation. A reactive treponemal result does not by itself indicate how recent or active an infection is, and a negative result may occur very early after exposure. Clinicians combine the result with a nontreponemal titer, symptoms, and history before reaching a conclusion.
- Treponema pallidum-specific antibodies
- T. pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA)
- T. pallidum enzyme immunoassay (EIA)
- Chemiluminescence immunoassay for T. pallidum
- Fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-ABS)
- Rapid plasma reagin (RPR) when paired
- Nontreponemal titer when paired
Why people order this test
- Confirm a reactive nontreponemal screening test
- Support the diagnosis of syphilis when symptoms raise concern
- Screen using a treponemal-first testing algorithm
- Follow up after a possible exposure
- Provide a specific result alongside a nontreponemal titer
- Evaluate sexual health as part of a broader panel
How to prepare
No fasting is required. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually at the arm. Follow any timing instructions from the ordering provider, since testing very soon after an exposure can affect results.
Understanding your results
Results are usually reported within one to three business days. A reactive treponemal result indicates that antibodies against the bacterium are present, which may reflect current or past infection. A provider interprets it with a nontreponemal titer and clinical findings to decide what it means.
Treponema Pallidum Antibody Test by state
Alabama
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Alaska
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Arizona
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Arkansas
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California
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Colorado
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Connecticut
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Delaware
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Florida
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Georgia
Treponema Pallidum Antibody Test across Georgia.
Hawaii
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Idaho
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a treponemal test?
It is a blood test that detects antibodies aimed specifically at Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. It is more specific than a nontreponemal screening test.
How is it different from the RPR?
The RPR detects general antibodies linked to infection, while the treponemal test targets the bacterium itself. The two are often used together.
Does a reactive result mean I have active syphilis?
Not necessarily. Treponemal tests can stay reactive for life after past infection, so a nontreponemal titer and clinical review help determine whether infection is current.
Can the test be negative right after exposure?
Yes. It can take time for antibodies to develop, so a test performed very soon after exposure may be negative. A provider can advise on retesting.
How is the sample collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Do I need to fast?
No fasting is required for this test.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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