Treponema pallidum Antibodies (FTA-ABS)

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
Click here to go to Quest Diagnostics page for this test