The traditional algorithm for serological syphilis testing starts with a non-treponemal assay such as the VDRL (venereal disease research laboratory) or RPR (rapid plasma reagin) tests to screen patients, with reactive samples followed up by a Treponema-specific method.
In February 2011, the CDC reiterated their long-standing preference for this testing sequence, but also made recommendations for facilities that want to implement an immunoassay-first "reverse" algorithm. Find out how this shift in syphilis-screening SOP could affect your lab.
The American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) is hosting a Webinar on September 14 from 2 to 3 pm (EST) that will present:
- Characteristics of the various serological syphilis tests and test algorithms
- Implications of using Treponema-specific immunoassay for initial screening
- How one big lab validated testing for their move to the "reverse" algorithm
- Guidelines for interpretation of syphilis serologic testing
- Rationale for recent CDC recommendations, straight from a CDC leader!
The experts will be:
- Gail Bolan, MD, director, Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta
- Jennifer Shieh, MS, CLS, test development scientist, Kaiser Permanente TPMG Regional Laboratory, Berkeley, Cali
Click here for more information or to register. The AACC encourages you to register soon, before the August 24 price increase.
[Source: AACC]
