The RPR test is done if a person has developed painless sores or ulcers on his/her sex organs or mouth and is experiencing fever, muscle pain, sore throat, etc.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The RPR test is used for detecting the infection by searching for the antibodies formed against it in the blood. An antibody test can be done along with the RPR test to check for an active syphilis infection and also for the prescription of a suitable treatment. This helps in limiting the occurrence of complications and the possible transmission of the disease.

The development of syphilis can be traced through different stages:

• Primary syphilis: The primary stage begins 2-3 weeks after contracting the infection. One might develop painless chancres in the regions where the bacteria had entered, such as the penis or vagina. You may not recognise them, especially if they are in the rectum or on the cervix. Even without therapy or treatment, they typically go away in 4-6 weeks.
• Secondary syphilis: An untreated primary stage syphilis infection can develop into secondary syphilis. Symptoms are visible within 6 weeks to 6 months after the appearance of chancre. Skin rashes that are red and non-itchy can also occur on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. Other symptoms may include fever, lethargy, enlarged lymph nodes, a scratchy throat, and body aches.
• Late or tertiary syphilis: An untreated secondary stage syphilis infection can develop into the late or tertiary stage. The infected person, in this stage, can be asymptomatic. The infection can also last for many years and if untreated, can damage the heart, eyes, brain, central nervous system (neurosyphilis), bones, joints, etc, and also result in mental illness, blindness, and even death.