Syphilis: Treponemal Antibodies, Chemiluminescence Immunoassay
Also known as: Syphilis, Treponemal
Use
This test detects antibodies to Treponema pallidum and can be used in conjunction with a nontreponemal assay to aid in the diagnosis of syphilis infection. This test is not recommended as a stand-alone test for general screening purposes for syphilis, nor should it be used to evaluate response to therapy. To screen for and diagnose syphilis infection, a reflex cascade that includes both RPR and a treponemal-specific assay should be utilized per current guidelines.
Special Instructions
The test is not recommended as a stand-alone for general screening and should not be used to evaluate response to therapy. It is recommended to use this test in conjunction with a nontreponemal assay for syphilis diagnosis.
Limitations
Treponemal antibodies typically persist for life despite treatment; thus, this assay cannot be used to monitor response to treatment or to assess treatment outcomes. False positive treponemal antibody results have been observed in individuals with nonsyphilis treponemal infections, such as bejel, pinta, and yaws.
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 47236-5
- 47236-5
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; lipemia; gross bacterial contamination; plasma specimen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |