FTA-ABS IgM (syphilis antibody) test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for IgM antibodies to Treponema pallidum, the bacteria that cause syphilis. It may be used to confirm syphilis, to look for recent infection, or to check a newborn for syphilis passed on in pregnancy.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careSyphilis screening is part of antenatal care because untreated infection can harm the baby, and it can be treated in pregnancy.
How the test is done
- 1Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm
- 2Your serum is placed on a slide with treated syphilis bacteria
- 3A fluorescent dye shows whether IgM antibodies have attached
- 4Results are reported as reactive or non-reactive
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Results are read with other syphilis tests such as VDRL or TPHA; discuss them with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A reactive result can point to recent syphilis infection or, in a newborn, infection passed on from the mother. A non-reactive result makes recent infection less likely, though very early or treated infection can test differently.
Who usually has this test
People with a positive syphilis screening test, pregnant women with possible infection, and newborns of mothers with syphilis.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising is possible; if the result is reactive, your partner may need testing too.
Names and options
Also called: FTA-ABS, syphilis confirmatory test, treponemal antibody IgM
Listed by the hospital as
- FTA-ABS IGM, SERUM BY IFA
Questions about this test
How is FTA-ABS IgM different from VDRL?
VDRL is a screening test, while FTA-ABS looks for antibodies specific to syphilis bacteria. The IgM version is mainly used to look for recent or newborn infection.
Can syphilis pass to the baby in pregnancy?
Yes, untreated syphilis can pass to the baby and cause serious problems. Testing and treatment in pregnancy greatly lower this risk.
Is syphilis treatable?
Yes, syphilis is usually cured with antibiotics, most often penicillin. Follow-up blood tests check that treatment has worked.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.