Prevalence of positive rapid plasma reagent tests (RPR) in pregnent women: a real or assumed decrease?
Date
2008-09-29T12:32:05Z
Authors
Moodley, Serasheni
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Introduction
The aim of this study was to determine the current RPR positive prevalence rate at the
Johannesburg Hospital and to determine whether there has been a significant decrease in the
prevalence rate of RPR positive tests.
Patients and Methods
A retrospective analysis of all RPR results within labour ward registers was performed. A
sample from 01/08/02 to 31/01/03 was used to determine the current RPR positive prevalence
rate. The results from the current period were then compared to the results from a similar
study in 1996. Results of two months, six months apart, of each year between these periods
were also analyzed in order to determine the trend of RPR positive prevalence rates. Results
The RPR prevalence rate was 4.4% compared to 19.5% in 1995/96 (p < 0.0001). Results
obtained from the intervening years showed a statistically significant decrease.
Conclusion
RPR positive prevalence rates at Johannesburg Hospital have decreased significantly in
recent years.
Description
Keywords
rapid plasma reagent tests, pregnant women