specific treponemal antigens TPHA:T.pallidum hemagglutination assay FTA-ABS:Fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test specific to Treponema pallidum remain in the body for many years or life-long lumbar puncture may be indicated to exclude neurosyphilis specific treponemal antigens • TPHA: T. pallidum hemagglutination assay • FTA-ABS: Fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test - specific to Treponema pallidum - remain in the body for many years or life-long • lumbar puncture may be indicated to exclude neurosyphilis