Syphilis Antibody, Treponema pallidum Particle Agglutination, Serum
Use
This test is used as an aid to resolve discrepant results between screening treponemal and non-treponemal assays. It helps in determining whether the results of a screening treponemal test are truly or falsely positive. It is not recommended for general screening purposes for syphilis, nor for evaluating response to therapy, and is not intended for medical-legal use.
Special Instructions
This assay is recommended by the CDC for sera testing positive by a screening treponemal assay and negative by rapid plasma reagin (RPR). Collection instructions involve centrifuging and aliquoting serum into a plastic vial.
Limitations
Testing by only Treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TP-PA) is not recommended for general screening purposes for syphilis. The TP-PA assay is less sensitive than the fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-ABS) test in untreated primary syphilis but compares favorably in all other stages. False-positive results can occur, and the test should not be used to evaluate response to therapy as treponemal tests tend to remain reactive following treatment.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 24312-1
- 24312-1
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Preferred: Serum gel; Acceptable: Red top; Submission Container: Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated (preferred) for 14 days or Frozen for 14 days
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |