All You Need to Know About Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination Assay (TPHA)
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease. It is caused by bacteria called Treponema pallidum. There are four stages of this disease namely, primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. The treatment of this condition depends on the stage of the infection. Early diagnosis can is very important as it can help in preventing further damage to the organs of the body. Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination Assay (TPHA) is a diagnostic test used to diagnose syphilis. Let us know more about this condition and the TPHA test.
Procedure
TPHA test is used to detect the dissolved number of antibodies in the serum sample of a patient that fights against the causative agents of syphilis. The palladium antibodies are detected through the hemagglutination method. This process is done by sensitizing the red blood cells with T. palladium fragments. The cells aggregate on the surface of the test dish when they are exposed to the serum sample infected with syphilis.
Symptoms
The symptoms of syphilis depend on the stage of infection. Symptoms can only be observed after a period of 3 to 4 weeks being infected with the bacteria. Some of the symptoms that one may experience are:
Primary Stage
The initial symptoms begin with a rash that is seemingly a painless small round sore. Syphilis can be transmitted to someone who comes in direct contact with the sore.
Secondary Stage
skin rashes
sore throat
fatigue
weight loss
aching joints
headache
Latent Stage
The latent stage also called the hidden stage may not have any noticeable symptoms. However, the bacteria remain active inside the body.
Tertiary Stage
memory loss
mental illness
blindness
It is extremely important to get tested as soon as an individual witness these symptoms as early detection of syphilis can avoid various complications in the long run. You can easily find a new diagnostic centre with hi-tech medical tools and equipment pieces to get your test done.