Test Name: Syphilis Serology 
Alternate Test Names Dark-Field Microscopy, for Microscopic Detection of Treponemes; Fluorescent Treponemal antibodies (FTA-ABS); FTA-ABS (Fluorescent Treponemal antibodies); RPR Test, (Syphilis Testing); Spirochaetes; Syphilis, Investigation of Lesions by Darkground Microscopy; TPHA; Treponema pallidum antibodies; VDRL 
PLS Test Code SYPH  Laboratory Microbiology 
Specimen Blood  Analysis Performed On Serum 
Container Serum Separator Tube (SST)  Container colour White 
Multiple specimens  
Required Volume Adult (mL) Req Vol Paediatric (mL)
Reference Ranges  
Turnaround Time Routine 3 Days  Turnaround Time Urgent 4 Hours 
Turnaround Other Confirmation of reactive samples at reference laboratory- 5 days. Testing for early infection (IgM) - 1 week 
Days test is performed Daily Monday to Friday  Transport 4 degrees C (On Ice) 
Special Requirements None 
Patient Preparation None 
Collection Instructions Venepuncture. 
Clinical Information Flourescent Treponemal Antibodies are no longer routinely performed by reference laboratory. If dark field microscopy is requested for the detection of spirochaetes, it is recommended that the patient is referred to an STD clinic 
Sent to Reference Laboratory No 
Ref Laboratory Name  
Estimated Patient Fee N/A 
Last Updated 25-Aug-2006 (Version: 1.00)