Question

I just had my second child. My previous RPR test results were normal, but this time, after giving birth to my daughter, she was tested positive for RPR antibodies but negative for serum. I want to know if her antibodies can turn negative and whether this will affect her future?

Answer

The RPR antibody positivity detected in your daughter within the first six months of birth may come from the mother’s body and does not necessarily indicate that she has been infected with syphilis. This antibody is transmitted from the mother to the baby through the placenta and does not have infectiousness itself. If you are concerned, you can ask your doctor to administer penicillin to your daughter as a preventive treatment. Wishing you all the best!

Question

I just gave birth to my second child. My previous RPR test results were normal, but this time, after giving birth to my daughter, she was detected with positive RPR antibodies but negative serum. I want to know if her antibodies can turn negative, and whether this will affect her future?

Answer

The RPR antibody positivity detected in your daughter within the first six months of birth may have originated from the maternal side and does not necessarily signify an infection with syphilis. These antibodies are transferred from the mother to the infant via the placenta and are not infectious by themselves. If you are worried, you can consult with your doctor about administering penicillin to your daughter as a preventive measure. Wishing you all the best!