The FTA-ABS Test in Dark-Field-Positive Primary Syphilis

The fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-ABS) test was performed in 77 consecutive patients with dark-field-positive primary syphilis. The test was reactive in 70 of the 77 patients (91%). These results make this serologic test extremely valuable in the diagnosis of syphilis at a time when this disease is on the increase, and the number of well-trained darkfield technicians is on the wane. (JAMA228:859-860, 1974)