Abnormal Blood Test Results: What Do Red Flags Mean?

The blood test report shows results in red?

Due to symptoms of immunodeficiency, I undergo blood tests at the hospital every six months.
This time, I had a regular check-up at the hospital before the Lunar New Year, and the next day I checked the results on the National Health Insurance app.
I found that my RPR was 1:8, RPR(L) was 39.7, and TPLA was 10022.0.
However, when I reviewed the reports from previous years, the RPR(L) was consistently 0.0.
Does this indicate that I may have contracted syphilis within the last six months? Should I schedule a follow-up appointment with my doctor after the Lunar New Year to discuss subsequent treatment and management?

Xiao Ding, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/08

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine

1.
First, it is important to identify the type of immune deficiency in order to make an accurate assessment.

2.
If last year's tests were normal and this year's results are abnormal, please seek care at a nearby medical facility as soon as possible for confirmation and treatment.
This can help prevent transmission to others and allow for a return to normal values.

Reply Date: 2024/02/08

More Info

Understanding abnormal blood test results can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to interpreting red flags that indicate potential health issues. In your case, the results you provided show a significant change in your RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) test, which is a non-treponemal test used primarily for screening syphilis. The fact that your previous RPR(L) results were 0.0 and now show a result of 39.7 is indeed concerning and suggests a possible recent infection.

The RPR test measures the presence of antibodies that are produced in response to the presence of the syphilis-causing bacterium, Treponema pallidum. A result of 1:8 indicates a reactive test, which means that your body has produced antibodies likely due to an infection. The increase from 0.0 to 39.7 is a significant change and could indicate that you have been exposed to syphilis within the last six months, as you suspected.

Given your immunocompromised status, it is crucial to take these results seriously. Individuals with weakened immune systems may have a different response to infections, and untreated syphilis can lead to severe complications, including neurological and cardiovascular issues. Therefore, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss these results and determine the appropriate course of action.

Your doctor may recommend further testing to confirm the diagnosis of syphilis, such as a treponemal test (e.g., FTA-ABS) that specifically detects antibodies to Treponema pallidum. If syphilis is confirmed, treatment typically involves antibiotics, usually penicillin, which is highly effective, especially in the early stages of the infection.

In addition to addressing the immediate concern of a potential syphilis infection, it is also essential to consider the broader implications of your immunocompromised state. Regular monitoring and follow-up blood tests are crucial to ensure that any infections are caught early and managed appropriately. Your healthcare provider may also discuss preventive measures to reduce the risk of future infections, including safe practices and possibly vaccinations if applicable.

In summary, the red flags in your blood test results indicate a significant change that warrants immediate attention. It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis, discuss treatment options, and ensure that your overall health is monitored closely, especially given your immunocompromised status. Taking prompt action can help prevent complications and ensure that you receive the care you need.

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