Formal Name of the Test:
Treponema pallidum Antibodies (FTA-ABS)
Other Names Used:
Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption Test, FTA-Ab, FTA-ABS, Syphilis Test, Fluorescent Treponemal Antigen
Sample Required:
Serum
Test Overview:
The FTA-ABS is a treponemal assay that detects T. pallidum antibodies. 4-6 weeks after infection, the FTA-ABS becomes reactive. Unlike nontreponemal assays, the FTA-ABS test remains reactive for many years after becoming reactive. The FTA-ABS is not suitable for monitoring treatment since the reactivity found does not indicate a response to therapy. The FTA-ABS test can’t tell the difference between syphilis and other treponematoses such as yaws, pinta, and bejil.
Test Preparation:
There is no need for any prior preparation.
Test Performed at:
Quest Diagnostics, Test Code 4112
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