Identification of false-positive syphilis antibody results using a semiquantitative algorithm

Clin Vaccine Immunol. 2011 Jun;18(6):1038-40. doi: 10.1128/CVI.05066-11. Epub 2011 Apr 20.

Abstract

Screening patients for syphilis serology using a "treponemal assay-first" approach presents unique challenges, particularly when applied to low-prevalence populations. The use of a screening algorithm that incorporates semiquantitative values from treponemal antibody test results can help to identify potential false-positive results while requiring a minimum of repeat testing.

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Bacterial / blood*
  • Clinical Laboratory Techniques / methods*
  • False Positive Reactions*
  • Humans
  • Mass Screening / methods
  • Serologic Tests / methods
  • Syphilis / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Bacterial