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Medical information Clinical review pending

Diagnostic Testing

RPR Serum Test

The RPR Serum Test is a screening test used to detect syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection. Early detection is important for effective treatment and preventing complications.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Serum sample.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
Test priceKSh 397

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the RPR Serum Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Symptoms suggestive of syphilis (e.g., sores, rashes)
  • ✓History of unprotected sex or multiple sexual partners
  • ✓Pregnancy (screening for congenital syphilis)
  • ✓Diagnosis of other sexually transmitted infections
  • ✓Partner notification for syphilis exposure
  • ✓Monitoring treatment response (in some cases)
  • ✓Public health screening programs
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Screening for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by Treponema pallidum. Early detection allows for timely treatment and prevention of complications and transmission.
The RPR Serum Test, or Rapid Plasma Reagin test, is a non-treponemal screening test used to detect syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Early detection is crucial because untreated syphilis can lead to serious health problems. This test plays a role in both individual health management and public health efforts to control the spread of the infection.

The RPR test detects non-specific antibodies that the body produces in response to syphilis infection. It is primarily used as a screening tool. A positive result usually indicates the need for further, more specific confirmatory testing to confirm an active syphilis infection.

Individuals who may benefit from this test include those experiencing symptoms suggestive of syphilis (like sores or rashes), individuals with a history of unprotected sex or multiple partners, pregnant women (as syphilis can affect the baby), and those diagnosed with other sexually transmitted infections.

Taking the RPR test allows for early detection, enabling prompt treatment and reducing the risk of long-term health issues. It also helps prevent transmission to others. The test is accessible and does not require special preparation.

Results are typically available quickly. A positive RPR result requires interpretation by a healthcare provider, often followed by confirmatory tests. Discuss your results with your doctor to understand their meaning and any necessary next steps.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test.
SampleSerum sample.
MethodologyNon-treponemal serological test (flocculation test).
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
The RPR test is a non-specific screening test. False positives can occur due to other conditions (e.g., autoimmune diseases, certain infections, pregnancy). False negatives can also occur, especially in early or late-stage syphilis. Confirmatory testing is required for a definitive diagnosis.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

The RPR test detects non-specific antibodies produced by the body in response to syphilis infection. It is used as a screening test.
No, a positive RPR test is a screening result and does not confirm an active syphilis infection. Further confirmatory testing is needed.
No special preparation, such as fasting, is required for the RPR Serum Test.
Results are typically available quickly, often within a day. Please confirm the exact turnaround time with the laboratory.
If your RPR test is positive, your doctor will likely order confirmatory tests to confirm the diagnosis and discuss appropriate treatment options.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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