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Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR)

Principle

The RPR Card Test is a non-treponemal screening assay used for the serologic detection of syphilis. It is recommended when venous blood collection is performed. In this method, a carbon-particle cardiolipin antigen reacts with “reagin,” an&

Specimen Requirements

Specimen

Collect 2 mL of serum in a red-top tube (no anticoagulant).

Collection

Separate serum from cells as soon as possible to prevent hemolysis.

Storage and Transport

  • 2–8 °C: use within 48 hours
  • −80 °C: required if testing is delayed beyond 48 hours

Plasma

  • Collect blood in EDTA anticoagulant tubes.
  • Keep plasma in the original collection tube and centrifuge before use.
  • Storage:
    • 2–8 °C: use within 48 hours

Method

Agglutination Test.

Normal Range

Non-reactive

Turnaround Time

One Week

References

  1. Manual of test for syphilis, PHS Publication No. 411; 1969.
  2. Bender, et al. Clinical Laboratory Procedure Manual, NCCLS. Code GP2-A, Vol. 4, NO. 2.