FTA-ABS

Test Code

TPIGG or 4112

Alias/See Also

Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody, FTA, FTA Serum, Syphilis Confirmation Test, TPA SUB, Treponemal Antibody Fluorescent FTA

CPT Codes
86780

Preferred Specimen

1 mL serum

Minimum Volume

0.2 mL

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Gross hemolysis. Gross lipemic

Methodology
Immunofluorescent Assay

Setup Schedule

Mon, Wed-Sat

Report Available

1-3 days (From receipt at performing laboratory)

Reference Range

Nonreactive

Clinical Significance

The FTA-ABS is a treponemal assay used to detect antibodies against Treponema pallidum. The FTA-ABS becomes reactive 4-6 weeks after infection. Unlike the nontreponemal (lipoidal antigen) tests, once the FTA-ABS test becomes reactive, it will remain reactive for many years. Since the reactivity found with the FTA-ABS does not indicate response to therapy, it is not suitable for monitoring treatment. The FTA-ABS test does not distinguish between syphilis and other treponemal diseases such as yaws, pinta and bejel.

Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.