dark ground microscopy - detection of spirochaete in primary and secondary syphilis
serology - detection of anti-treponemal antibodies with:
non-specific antigen - cardiolipin used in the Venereal Disease Reference Laboratory (VDRL) test. This is not specific for Treponemes but is useful to assess the efficacy of treatment of proven syphilis - it will revert to negative once Treponema eliminated
specific treponemal antigens:
TPHA } remain positive life-long and
FTA-ABS } specific to Treponema pallidum
lumbar puncture may be indicated to exclude neurosyphilis
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