Proficiency testing, trouble shooting and quality control for the RPR test.

A Syphilis Serology Proficiency Testing Program revealed that 182 of the 272 (67 percent) participating laboratories failed to report acceptable results for a minimally reactive pair of serum samples. It was noted that serious technical errors involved the antigen, use of controls, procedures and in some cases, the lack of training. A program involving strict quality control measures is presented for use in routine syphilis serologic procedures.