TPHA (Treponema pallidum haemagglutination) test
Quick answer: A TPHA test looks for antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. Doctors usually order it to confirm a reactive VDRL or RPR, or as part of syphilis screening.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careSyphilis is screened for early in pregnancy and often before IVF, as treatment prevents it from passing to the baby.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse confirms your details
- 2A vein on your arm is cleaned
- 3A needle collects a tube of blood
- 4The lab mixes your serum with treated red cells and looks for clumping
What your results can mean
Reading your report
TPHA often stays positive for life after treatment, so it shows infection at some time and is read with VDRL by your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive TPHA shows antibodies to the syphilis bacterium, from current or past infection, and usually stays positive after treatment. A negative TPHA with a reactive VDRL often means the VDRL was a false positive.
Who usually has this test
People with a reactive VDRL or RPR, and people being screened for syphilis in pregnancy or before IVF.
Risks and aftercare
No special aftercare; if positive, your doctor explains treatment and partner testing.
Names and options
Also called: TPHA, syphilis confirmatory test
Listed by the hospital as
- TPHA - TREPONEMA PALLIDIUM HAEMAGGLUTINATION ASSAY
Questions about this test
Why is TPHA done after a positive VDRL?
VDRL can be falsely positive, while TPHA is specific for the syphilis bacterium. A positive result on both confirms syphilis.
Will my TPHA turn negative after treatment?
Usually not. It often stays positive for life, so it cannot show whether treatment worked. VDRL titres are used for that.
Should my partner be tested if my TPHA is positive?
Yes, partners are usually advised to be tested and treated if needed. This prevents reinfection.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.