FTA-ABS is a<unk>  test for Syphilis. Using antibodies specific for the<unk> pallidum species, such tests are more specific than Non-Treponemal testing such as VDRL.
FTA<unk><unk>  Antibody) - ABS <unk>  should always be followed to confirm a positve RPR and/or VDRL test for syphilis. The ABS suffix refers particularly to a processing step used to remove nonspecific antispirochetal antibodies present in normal serum.
This test is not useful for following therapy, because it does not wane with successful treatment of the disease, and will continue to be positive for the life of the patient after primary exposure.
Fluorescent treponemal antibody absorbtion 
Nucleic acid test
Heterophile antibody test
Latex fixation test
Mantoux test
Dark field microscopy
Direct fluorescent antibody
Drug susceptibility testing