Overview
The TPPA test detects treponemal antibodies and serves a similar confirmatory role as TPHA in syphilis testing algorithms.
What it detects
Treponemal antibodies associated with syphilis.
Sample type
Blood sample.
When it may be appropriate
Confirmatory testing after reactive nontreponemal screening.
Window period considerations
May take time to become positive after infection.
Test limitations
Positive results may reflect past or treated infection.
Interpretation basics
Used with nontreponemal tests and clinical history to diagnose or stage syphilis.
Follow-up recommendations
Assess symptoms, prior treatment and need for follow-up titers.
Key points
- Treponemal confirmatory test
- May stay positive after treatment
- Used with RPR/VDRL
- Stage depends on history
When to seek care
- Syphilis confirmation
- Partner evaluation
- Follow-up planning