Treponema pallidum (Syphilis) Antibody Screen

Introduction

Syphilis is caused by a Treponema pallidum bacterial infection that can cause serious health complications if left untreated. Syphilis can be cured in the early stages with a single dose of penicillin. This prevents transmission and the development of further symptoms, but does not treat any tissue damage that has already occurred.

Pricing

$49

How to order a test

Synonyms

• Syphilis
• Treponemal assay

What is Included?

Detection of antibodies to Treponema pallidum by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay.

Turnaround Time

1 – 3 business days
The turnaround time is not guaranteed. The average turnaround time is 1 – 3 business days from the date that the sample arrives at the laboratory. Shipping time for the sample is not included. Additional time is required if the case requires confirmatory or reflex testing, or if the sample is insufficient, or if a recollection is required.

Related Documents

Additional Information and Resources

» Syphilis Quick Facts
» Facts about congenital syphilis
» What health complications can occur due to an untreated syphilis infection?
» Is there a cure for syphilis?
» What is secondary syphilis?

Preparation Before Specimen Collection

No additional preparation or dietary/medication changes are required before collecting a sample for testing.

Specimen Type

Blood

Volume

Dried blood spot collection onto 5 circles on the collection card
or
50 μL in a microtainer

Container

Blood collection card
or
Microtainer (regular blood tube)

Collection Method

This test requires a blood sample from a finger prick. All supplies for sample collection are provided in the kit.

1. First wash and dry hands. Warm hands aid in blood collection.
2. Clean the finger prick site with the alcohol swab and allow to air dry.
3. Use the provided lancet to puncture the skin in one quick, continuous and deliberate stroke.
4. Wipe away the first drop of blood.
5. Massage hand and finger to increase blood flow to the puncture site. Angle arm and hand downwards to facilitate blood collection on the fingertip.
6. Drip blood onto the blood collection card or into the microtainer tube.
7. Dispose of all sharps safely and return sample to the laboratory in the provided prepaid return shipping envelope.

NOTES: Avoid squeezing or ‘milking’ the finger excessively. If more blood is required and blood flow stops, perform a second skin puncture on another finger. Do not touch the fingertip.

Specimen Storage

Maintain specimen at temperatures between 2°C and 30°C during storage and transport.

Specimen Stability

• Dried blood spots can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 30 days.
• Blood samples can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.

Causes for Rejection

• Incorrect or incomplete patient identification
• Incorrect specimen collection
• Inappropriate storage and transport conditions
• Incorrect specimen volume

Purpose

To detect Treponema pallidum antibodies in a blood sample for screening for syphilis infections. Supplementary tests are required for confirmation of reactive results in this assay.

Limitations

• This report is not intended for use in medico-legal applications.
• These results are intended for screening and monitoring for syphilis, and should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical information.
• Correct specimen collection and handling is required for optimal assay performance.
• A negative result does not exclude the possibility of infection. False-negative test results may occur due to improper specimen collection, or specimen collection during the window period post-exposure when antibody levels are below detectable limits.

Methodology

Chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (Alinity i Syphilis TP assay)

Reference

Nonreactive