FTA-ABS
| Alternate Names | Fluorescent Treponemal Antigen, Syphilis Confirmation Test, Treponemal Antibody Fluorescent FTA |
| Ordering Recommendation | The FTA-ABS is a specific treponemal assay to detect antibody to T. pallidum. The FTA-ABS becomes reactive 4-6 weeks after infection. Unlike the nontreponemal tests, once the FTA-ABS test becomes reactive, it will remain reactive for many years. Since the reactivity found with the FTA-ABS does not indicate response to therapy, it is not suitable for monitoring treatment. The FTA-ABS test does not distinguish between syphilis and other treponematoses such as yaws, pinta and bejil. |
| Specimen | Serum |
| Container Type | Red/Yellow Top Tube
|
| Reference Range | See patient report |
| Stability | 14 days |
| Transport Temp | Refrigerate 2°-8°C |
| Instructions | None |
| Performing Lab | Quest Nichols Institute – San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Reference Lab Test Code: 4112 |
| Days Performed | Tues-Sat |
| Report Available | 2-4 days |
| NY State Available | Yes |
| LOINC Code | 5393-4 |
| CPT Code | 86780 |
