The RPR is the appropriate first line test for newborns and infants <6 mo of age who are born to mothers who have reactive nontreponemal and treponemal test results.

For patients ≥6 mos, order Treponema pallidum, 8325/LAB8325 (blood) or VDRL, CSF 723/LAB723 should be ordered.

Microtainer - amber serum separator (SST)

Immediatley following collection, mix sample by gently inverting 5 times

1. Allow sample to clot for a minimum of 30 minutes
2. Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection

Microtainer - amber serum separator (SST)

Place the microtainer into a Snap cap conical vial/tube and cap for transport

Microtainer - red

Refrigerated

• Cord blood is not acceptable due to maternal contamination
• Improper labels (unlabeled or mislabeled)
• Hemolysis (some procedures)
• Improper anticoagulant or ratio
• Delay in transport
• Improper storage temperature affecting results
• Improper container
• Leaking container resulting in compromised specimen
• Quantity not sufficient (QNS)

Non-reactive

Clinical consultation:

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) provides a Syphilis Hotline for clinician questions about syphilis testing, results interpretation, treatment, and followup.

Call (651) 201-4024 to speak with an MDH clinical expert.