A positive fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test (FTA-ABS)and a positive CSF venereal disease research laboratory test (VDRL)indicate:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A positive FTA-ABS and a positive CSF VDRL suggest neurosyphilis, which is the invasion of the central nervous system by the Treponema pallidum bacterium. A false-positive reaction is possible but would not be indicated by both tests being positive. The failure to inactivate the CSF is not relevant to the interpretation of these tests. The rapid plasma reagin test is a screening test for syphilis but would not be necessary in this scenario as the diagnosis of neurosyphilis is already suggested by the positive FTA-ABS and CSF VDRL.

A Positive Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption Test (FTA-ABS)and a Positive