The RPR test is a non-treponemal serological test used to detect antibodies produced in response to Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. It's a qualitative test, meaning it gives a positive or negative result. The RPR test is typically performed on serum or plasma obtained from a blood sample.
In the RPR test, the patient's serum or plasma is mixed with a solution containing cardiolipin, lecithin, and cholesterol particles. If the patient's serum contains antibodies against Treponema pallidum, these antibodies will react with the cardiolipin-lecithin-cholesterol particles, causing visible agglutination or clumping.
A "RPR test slide" could refer to a specialized slide or card used to perform the RPR test. This slide likely contains wells or spots where the serum/plasma sample and the reagent are mixed, allowing for easy observation of agglutination reactions.
These test slides are a convenient way to perform the RPR test in a laboratory setting, allowing for multiple samples to be tested simultaneously and facilitating the interpretation of results.