FLUORESCENT TREPONEMAL ANTIBODY-ABSORPTION, FTA-ABS

The FTA-ABS test is used to detect antibodies to the bacteria Treponema pallidum, which causes syphilis. Blood is drawn from a vein (venipuncture), usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe.