Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody-Absorption Test
Synonyms
FTA ABS Test
FTA-ABS Test
FTA-ABS Tests
Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption Test
Test, FTA-ABS
Tests, FTA-ABS
Serologic assay that detects antibodies to Treponema pallidum, the etiologic agent of syphilis. After diluting the patient's serum to remove non-specific antibodies, the serum is mixed on a glass slide with Nichol's strain of Treponema pallidum. An antigen-antibody reaction occurs if the test is positive and the bound antibodies are detected with fluoresceinated antihuman gamma-globulin antibody.