OVERVIEW:
What is the FTA-ABS (fluorescent treponemal antibodies) lab test?
FTA-ABS (fluorescent treponemal antibodies) lab test is a blood test that detects the presence of antibodies to treponema pallidum bacteria.
Why is the FTA-ABS (fluorescent treponemal antibodies) lab test done?
FTA-ABS (fluorescent treponemal antibodies) lab test is done in order to:
- Screen for syphilis (sexually transmitted disease),
- Monitor the effect of treatment of another sexually transmitted disease.
What does FTA-ABS (fluorescent treponemal antibodies) lab test measure?
FTA-ABS (fluorescent treponemal antibodies) lab test checks for the presence of antibodies to treponema pallidum bacteria. Treponema pallidum causes syphilis (a sexually transmitted disease).
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no known risks associated with this test.
How should I prepare for this test?
There is no special preparation needed for this test.
How accurate is the FTA-ABS test?
In the middle (secondary) stage of syphilis, the FTA-ABS test is most reliable and is reportedly positive in 100% of cases.
How long does FTA-ABS test take?
The result of FTA-ABS test is available within 2-3 days.
Will I get a positive FTA-ABS test result if I was previously treated for syphilis successfully?
Your test result will be positive if you have been previously infected with syphilis and were treated for it successfully.
A negative test result means that you are not currently infected with syphilis and that you have never been infected with syphilis before.
FTA-ABS (fluorescent treponemal antibodies) lab test is done in order to:
- Screen for syphilis (sexually transmitted disease),
- Monitor the effect of treatment of another sexually transmitted disease.