Question

Diagnostic test for neurosyphilis:

• A. VDRL
• B. RPR
• C. TPI
• D. FTA-ABS

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To determine the appropriate diagnostic test for neurosyphilis, we need to understand the available options: VDRL, RPR, TPI, and FTA-ABS. Neurosyphilis is an infection affecting the central nervous system, commonly secondary to untreated syphilis. The correct diagnostic tool must be sensitive and specific for detecting syphilis within the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Among the listed options, the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test is specially designed to detect syphilis infection, particularly in the CSF, making it the standard test for diagnosing neurosyphilis. VDRL is a non-treponemal serological test, highly efficient for screening neurosyphilis, although confirmation often requires additional testing when results are not definitive.

Other tests mentioned, such as RPR, TPI, and FTA-ABS, serve different purposes in syphilis diagnosis:

• RPR: Similar to VDRL, RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) is a non-treponemal test used for syphilis blood screening but less common for detecting neurosyphilis.
• TPI: The T. pallidum immobilization test is a historical and specific treponemal test rarely used today due to its complexity and the advent of more modern tests.
• FTA-ABS: The Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption test is a treponemal test that can help confirm syphilis but is not primarily used for neurosyphilis diagnosis.

Therefore, the VDRL remains the classic and most appropriate test for neurosyphilis detection.