Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody (FTA-ABS)

Test Overview

The Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption (FTA-ABS) test is a highly specific blood test used to detect antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis. This test plays a critical role as a confirmatory test after initial screening tools like the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) or Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) tests return a positive result.

Unlike initial screening tests that may show false positives, the fluorescent treponemal antibody test is more precise and helps confirm whether a person has ever been infected with the bacteria. The test uses fluorescent dyes and a microscope to detect the presence of antibodies, indicating past or current infection. It's especially useful in the later stages of syphilis or in individuals with unclear test histories.

What is the cost of the Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody (FTA-ABS) Test?

The cost of the FTA-ABS test is not fixed and can vary depending on several factors:

• Location of the Testing Facility: Diagnostic labs and hospitals in metropolitan areas tend to charge more due to higher operational costs. Smaller towns or rural labs may offer the same test at a lower rate.
• Type of Healthcare Provider: Government-run health centres and public hospitals may offer subsidised or low-cost testing. In contrast, private hospitals and diagnostic centres usually charge higher fees for the same test.
• Inclusion of Additional Services: Some labs may bundle the fta ab test with other blood tests, physician consultations, or fast-track services, which can increase the total cost.
• Health Insurance Coverage: If you have insurance, your provider may partially or fully cover the cost of the test, depending on your policy and the medical necessity.

Always check with the lab or hospital beforehand to understand what the test includes and whether additional charges may apply.

Why should I get Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody (FTA-ABS) Test?

You may need the fluorescent treponemal antibody test for several important health reasons. It is commonly recommended when:
An Initial Screening Test Is Positive: If you’ve had a positive result on an RPR or VDRL test, the FTA-ABS helps confirm the diagnosis and rules out false positives.

• You Have Symptoms of Syphilis: Signs such as painless sores (chancres), rash, swollen lymph nodes, or neurological symptoms could indicate syphilis and warrant further testing.
• You’ve Been Exposed to an Infected Partner: If your partner has tested positive for syphilis or another STI, you should get tested, even if you have no symptoms.
• Routine Screening in Pregnancy: Syphilis can be transmitted from mother to baby. Pregnant women are routinely screened to ensure early detection and treatment.
• High-Risk Behaviour or Conditions: Individuals with multiple sexual partners, those with HIV, or people involved in sex work should consider regular testing.

Getting the fta ab test allows for early diagnosis and timely treatment, which can prevent serious health complications and the risk of transmission to others.

Test Requirements

The fluorescent treponemal antibody test is simple and safe. Here’s what you should know before taking the test:

• Sample Type: A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm. The process typically takes only a few minutes.
• Fasting: No fasting is required before the test. You can eat and drink normally unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
• Preparation: No special preparation is necessary. However, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking or if you have other medical conditions. These factors may influence test results or require additional interpretation.
• Timing: You can take the test at any time of day. However, if your doctor has ordered multiple blood tests, they may recommend scheduling them together for convenience.

The procedure is quick, and most people can resume normal activities immediately after the sample is collected.

Purpose of the Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody (FTA-ABS) Test

The fta ab test serves several essential clinical purposes:

• Confirming Syphilis Infection: After a positive result on a preliminary test, the FTA-ABS confirms the presence of antibodies specific to Treponema pallidum.
• Detecting Past or Latent Infections: The test remains positive for life in most individuals who have been infected, even if they have received successful treatment. This makes it especially useful for detecting latent or previously treated syphilis.
• Investigating Neurological Symptoms: In cases of suspected neurosyphilis or late-stage syphilis affecting the nervous system, this test may be part of the diagnostic process.
• Supporting Diagnosis in Complex Cases: The fluorescent treponemal antibody test is helpful when symptoms are non-specific or when other test results are inconclusive.

This test provides essential information that helps doctors determine the presence, stage, and treatment response of syphilis.

Components of FLUORESCENT TREPONEMAL ANTIBODY (FTA-ABS)

This test panel includes the following component:

Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption (FTA-ABS)

A specific serological test used to detect antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis. It helps confirm the diagnosis of syphilis, especially in cases where non-treponemal tests are inconclusive

Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody (FTA-ABS) Test Result Interpretation

Interpreting the results of the fta ab test requires clinical context and often additional tests. Here’s a general overview:

• Positive Result: This indicates that antibodies to Treponema pallidum are present. A positive result suggests current or past syphilis infection. However, it does not distinguish between an active infection and one that has already been treated.
• Negative Result: A negative result usually means that the person has never been infected with syphilis. However, if the test is taken too early (within a few weeks of exposure), antibodies may not yet be detectable.
• Inconclusive or Indeterminate: This may occur due to technical issues or borderline antibody levels. Your doctor may recommend repeat testing or additional tests like a lumbar puncture or more advanced blood tests.

Keep in mind that a positive FTA-ABS result can remain for life, even after the infection is treated. It’s crucial to combine this result with other lab findings and clinical examination for an accurate diagnosis.Absolutely! Here are two clear and helpful subheadings with content tailored for Apollo 24|7, using the test name FTA-ABS (also covering the fluorescent treponemal antibody test):

How to Check FTA-ABS Test Result in Apollo 24|7?

To view your FTA-ABS test result on Apollo 24|7:

• Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account via the website or mobile app using your registered mobile number or email.
• Navigate to the ‘Test Reports’ section.
• Find your fluorescent treponemal antibody test by date or test name.
• Click on the report to view or download your result.
• Results are usually available within the specified turnaround time mentioned during booking.

Book FTA-ABS Test in Apollo 24|7

To book the FTA-ABS test on Apollo 24|7:

• Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or open the mobile app.
• Use the search bar to type "FTA-ABS test" or "fluorescent treponemal antibody test".
• Select the test from the suggestions and click ‘Book Now’.
• Choose a home sample collection or nearest diagnostic centre, as per your convenience.
• Pick a time slot, confirm your details, and proceed with secure online payment.
• You’ll receive a confirmation and sample collection reminder via SMS or app notification.