Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption (FTA-ABS)

Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption (FTA-ABS) to detect the presence of antibodies to Treponema pallidum.

Serum – minimum of 0.5 mL. The same serum sample is used for all required syphilis testing.

Specimens may be subject to rejection if they are not the appropriate sample type, have insufficient volume, or are not accompanied by relevant patient information.

N/A

Store samples refrigerated or frozen until shipped for testing. Ship frozen samples on dry ice, and refrigerated samples on wet ice

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Suspected of syphilis infection.

Completed Sexually Transmitted and Opportunistic Infections requisition form, including sender laboratory name, address, and telephone number. Patient identifier (specimen reference number), date of birth, and sex. Date collected and test requested.

N/A

The FTA-ABS indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) qualitatively detects antibodies to Treponema pallidum in patient serum (1). Test reactions are examined using a fluorescence microscope.

20 calendar days. Contact the laboratory prior to submission of urgent clinical specimens.

1. Larsen SA, Pope V, Johnson RE, Kennedy EJ Jr. A Manual of Tests for Syphilis. 9th ed. Washington, DC: American Public Health Association; 1998.