IMMUNEFLUORESCENCE TEST IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF SYPHILIS,
Abstract
The description of NELSON's test (TPI) opened a new direction in the serology of syphilis. This is characterized by the tendency to at least partially replace the hitherto used so-called classical tests for syphilis, which are based upon the use of non-specific lipoid antigens, with new methods which detect antibodies of syphilitic sera with a specific treponema antigen. NELSON's test is generally held, however, a decisive verificative method of the serological diagnosis of syphilis, and to a certain extent also a valued measure of the effectiveness of specific treatment. The procedure of this test requires a lot of work, and it costs much. Therefore, it cannot be used in the everyday diagnostic work, and particularly not for serological mass examinations. In an effort at finding a simpler and cheaper method for the detection of specific antibodies in syphilitic sera, DEACON undertook investigations into the use of immunefluorescence (IF) phenomena in syphilis diagnostics. In the test described by DEACON ('Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Test: FTA') the method of indirect IF was used as described by WELLER and COONS. An immunological bond is formed between the globulins of antitreponema antibodies and labelled antiglobulin immune serum. Due to this double binding, the treponema antigen shows an intensive fluorescence. The result of the test is studied under a fluorescence microscope.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 15, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0835165
Entities
People
- Wanda Manikowska-lesinska
Organizations
- United States Army Biological Warfare Laboratories