Serologic Testing Flashcards
1
Q
What is the purpose of serologic testing in the context of NEUROSYPHILIS, and what is the CAUSATIVE AGENT it aims to detect?
A
- Serologic testing is performed to detect the presence of NEUROSYPHILIS
- It specifically aims to identify the CAUSATIVE AGENT, which is treponema pallidum.
2
Q
What is the recommended procedure by the CDC to diagnose Neurosyphilis through serologic testing?
A
- Venereal Disease Research Laboratories (VDRL) test.
3
Q
How does the sensitivity of the Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody-Absorption (FTA-ABS) test compare to the VDRL test in syphilis diagnosis?
A
- The FTA-ABS test is more sensitive than the VDRL test for syphilis diagnosis.
4
Q
Why is the FTA-ABS test less prone to contamination with blood in treated syphilis cases?
A
- Remains positive in the serum of treated syphilis cases, preventing contamination with blood.