FTA-ABS
Alternate Names : Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption Test
Definition
This blood test is used to detect antibodies directed specifically to the bacteria that cause syphilis, Treponema pallidum.
This test is used routinely to confirm whether a positive screening test for syphilis reflects true infection with syphilis.
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Why is the Test Performed?
This test is used routinely to confirm whether a positive screening test for syphilis (either VDRL or RPR) reflects true infection with syphilis. It may also be done when either primary or tertiary syphilis are suspected and the initial screening tests are negative, because screening tests during these stages of syphilis may be falsely negative.
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