TPPA
The TPPA test confirms syphilis infection by detecting antibodies to Treponema pallidum. It is used to verify positive syphilis screening results.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about TPPA
What is the TPPA (Treponema pallidum particle agglutination) test?
The TPPA test is a laboratory blood test that detects antibodies specifically directed against Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis. It works by identifying antibody–particle agglutination, which indicates prior exposure to the organism.
This test is highly specific and is used as a confirmatory test, not a screening tool. Once positive, TPPA antibodies usually remain detectable for life, even after successful treatment.
Because of this, TPPA confirms exposure but does not determine whether the infection is currently active.
Why do I need a TPPA test?
Initial syphilis screening tests can occasionally produce false-positive results. A confirmatory test is therefore required to establish a definitive diagnosis.
You may need this test if you:
- Have a reactive syphilis screening test (RPR, VDRL, or EIA)
- Need confirmation of suspected syphilis infection
- Are undergoing sexual health assessment
- Are being assessed during pregnancy
- Have symptoms suggestive of syphilis
- Need clarification of previous exposure
- Require confirmation for clinical documentation
TPPA ensures diagnostic accuracy and appropriate clinical decision-making.
Benefits of the test
- Highly specific for syphilis
Confirms true exposure to Treponema pallidum. - Essential confirmatory test
Used after positive screening results. - Reduces false-positive diagnoses
Improves diagnostic confidence. - Reliable lifetime marker
Remains positive after past infection. - Widely used in UK clinical practice
Standard confirmatory syphilis test. - Supports pregnancy screening
Confirms maternal infection history. - Simple blood-based testing
Requires only one blood sample. - Clarifies infection history
Helps distinguish true exposure from screening artefacts.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
- Choose your nearest UK clinic
- Attend your appointment
- A clinician draws a blood sample
- Sample is sent to the laboratory
- Results are issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
- Book a mobile phlebotomist
- Blood sample taken at your home or hotel
- No need to attend a clinic
- Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
Negative TPPA
- No antibodies to Treponema pallidum detected
- UK standard: Negative
- No evidence of past or current syphilis infection
Positive TPPA
- Antibodies to Treponema pallidum detected
- UK standard: Positive
- Confirms exposure to syphilis at some point
Interpretation note
- TPPA does not indicate whether infection is active
- Activity is assessed using non-treponemal tests (e.g. RPR or VDRL)
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.