unit 5 syphilis serology

Question 1

describe bacterial agent of syphilis

Answer 1

T. pallidum (cork screw shape–> spins)

Question 2

4 stages of syphilis

Answer 2

spontaneous cure
latent (early and lat)
tertiary

Question 3

congenital syphilis in terms of manifestations

Answer 3

newborn passed in utero
–> hutchinsons teeth (notching/discoloration)

Question 4

reagin

Answer 4

substance that is responsible for positive reaction

Question 5

principles of RPR

Answer 5

flocculation reaction with reagin (IgG or IgM) binds to lipids –> charcoal used a identify positive

Question 6

principles of VDRL

Answer 6

same technique except use microscope

Question 7

principles of TP-PA

Answer 7

wells change color when positive

Question 8

principles of FTA-ABS

Answer 8

fluorescent absorption test

Question 9

compare antigens used in the nontreponemal and treponemal tests

Answer 9

N: lipids (screening)
T: t. pallidum (confirmatory

Question 10

sensitivity of nontreponemal and treponemal tests in different stages of syphilis

Answer 10

RPR and TP-PA is most sensitive

Question 11

advantages, disadvantages of nontreponemal and treponemal antibody

Answer 11

N: low sensitivity in primary stage

Question 12

identify syphilis serology tests approved for use of CSF

Answer 12

VDRL

Question 13

explain condition under which syphilis serology cannot be performed on CSF