Quantitative microhaemagglutination assay for Treponema pallidum antibodies in experimental syphilis.

Abstract

The quantitative microhaemagglutination assay for Treponema pallidum antibodies (MHA-TP) was studies in 52 untreated and treated rabbits with experimental syphilis. Rabbits with incubating experimental syphilis were cured or inadequately treated with penicillin G and some cured rabbits were later reinfected. MHA-TP conversion occurred within 45 days in untreated rabbits. Titres reached peak levels about four months after inoculation and remained relatively high for up to two years. The quantitative MHA-TP test differentiated between rabbits cured of experimental incubating syphilis and those untreated and inadequately treated. MHA-TP titres decreased after treatment given six or 12 months after inoculation but reversion did not occur. MHA-TP conversion or significant increases in titre occurred as soon as seven days after reinfection and preceded corresponding changes in a quantitative non-treponemal test. The MHA-TP is useful as a screening test for treponemal antibodies in rabbits. The quantitative MHA-TP in humans after treatment for syphilis and reinfection deserves further study.

• Authors: R R Tight, A C White
• Journal: The British journal of venereal diseases (Br J Vener Dis) Vol. 56 Issue 5 Pg. 291-6 (Oct 1980) ISSN: 0007-134X [Print] England
• PMID: 7000307 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Antibodies, Bacterial
• Penicillin G Benzathine

Topics

• Animals
• Antibodies, Bacterial (analysis)
• Hemagglutination Tests (methods)
• Male
• Penicillin G Benzathine (therapeutic use)
• Rabbits
• Syphilis (drug therapy, immunology)
• Syphilis Serodiagnosis (methods)
• Time Factors
• Treponema pallidum (immunology)