Neonatal testing for suspected congenital syphilis:
The interpretation of syphilis in neonates requires specialist input as no single test can be used to diagnose congenital syphilis. Passive transfer of maternal antibodies makes interpretation of neonate serology more complex.
When taking samples for testing, paired Maternal serum is required at the same time. Send a neonatal venous blood sample (not umbilical cord sample) for syphilis serology (RPR, Treponemal IgM) together with Maternal venous blood for RPR at the time of delivery (if no result recently available at the same testing lab from the previous 4 weeks). Refer to link below to NZSHS website "Syphilis in Pregnancy-Antenatal Management Guidelines for maternal and congenital syphilis."
www.nzshs.org/guidelines
Test Availability - By arrangement with Virology/Serology
