Question
Which among the following is the most sensitive test for the micro-organism shown in the photomicrograph below?
A. VDRL.
B. RPR.
C. FTA-ABS.
D. Kahn.
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » C Explanation |
 |
Ans: C. FTA-ABS.
The micro-organism shown in the photomicrograph above represents Treponema.
Types of tests for Syphilis
Non-Treponemal Tests:
- Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test
- Rapid plasma reagin (RPR)
Treponemal Tests:
- Fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test (FTA-ABS)
- T pallidum particle agglutination (TP-PA)
- Enzyme immunoassay (EIA)
Sensitivity of Syphilis Tests
| Primary Syphillis | Secondary Syphilis | Latent Syphilis | Tertiary Syphilis | |
| RPR/VDRL | 78%-86% | 100% | 95%-100% | 71%-73% |
| FTA-ABS | 84% | 100% | 100% | 96% |
| TP-PA | 89% | 100% | 100% | Data not yet available |
| EIA | 82%-100% | 100% | 98-100% | Data not yet available |
- All the serological tests have 100% sensitivity in secondary stage of syphilis.
- Amongst the given options FTA – ABS is most sensitive.