Absorbed fluorescent treponemal antibody test

A highly sensitive and specific serum test is employed to detect the presence of antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the causative agent of syphilis. Indirect fluorescent detection is the preferred method; however, it presents a challenge due to the presence of group antibodies that can cross-react with non-pathogenic treponemes. To overcome this, the test sera undergoes a process of neutralization with a culture filtrate or ultrasonicate of the Reiter treponeme, effectively removing any interfering group antibodies. The absorbed serum is then carefully spread over a 10 mm film coated with methanol-fixed Nichols strain of T. pallidum, followed by a 30-minute incubation in a moist chamber. Subsequently, the film is thoroughly washed in PBS, dried, and subjected to the application of fluorescein-conjugated anti-human gamma globulin serum. After incubation and another round of washing, the film is dried and mounted in buffered glycerin. The resulting films, including appropriate control samples, are meticulously examined for fluorescence. In cases where the results appear uncertain, further testing is conducted using an alternative sorbent, along with assessment against both Reiter and Nichols treponemes. The inclusion of the Reiter treponeme serves as a check for the presence of group antibodies, adding an additional layer of validation to the analysis.


 


Posted

in

by

Tags: