Mast launches new syphilis assay Serodia TP-PA

Mast has announced the launch of a new assay for use in determining the serological diagnosis of syphilis at the primary stage.

Developed by Fujirebio, the in-vitro passive particle agglutination assay functions by detecting the presence of antibodies raised in response to infection by Treponema pallidum, a spirochete bacterium that can cause a range of diseases, most commonly syphilis.

Since this time of bacteria is yet to be successfully cultured using traditional microbiological methods, the availability of traditional diagnostic tests for syphilis is fairly limited.

Mast is launching this new product at a time when the incidence of syphilis cases in England is on the rise, having increased continually since 1997, despite the availability of modern diagnostic agents and drugs.

The company said: "Serodia TP-PA boasts high specificity and sensitivity, is valid for use in both plasma and serum and remains unaffected by the use of anticoagulants."

Life science professionals will be able to learn more about Mast's newest product offerings at the annual Microbe conference, which will take place in Sheffield from September 19th to 21st 2014.