Prevalence of positive rapid plasma reagent tests (RPR) in pregnent women: a real or assumed decrease?

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.