Positive TPHA result: A positive TPHA test result indicates the presence of antibodies against Treponema pallidum. It confirms exposure to the bacterium and suggests an active or past infection with syphilis. However, a positive TPHA test alone does not provide information about the stage or activity of the infection. It requires correlation with clinical findings, history, and other diagnostic tests, such as the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) or Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test, for a comprehensive evaluation.
Negative TPHA result: A negative TPHA test result indicates the absence of detectable antibodies against Treponema pallidum. It suggests that the individual has not been exposed to syphilis or that the antibody levels are below the detectable threshold. However, it's important to note that individuals in the early stages of syphilis may not have detectable TPHA antibodies, as it takes time for antibodies to develop. Repeat testing may be necessary if there is a high suspicion of syphilis.