Prozone phenomenon in secondary syphilis

Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2011 Jan;32(1):47-9. doi: 10.4103/0253-7184.81256.

Abstract

Prozone phenomenon is a false negative response resulting from high antibody titer which interferes with formation of antigen- antibody lattice, necessary to visualize a positive flocculation test. We present a case of secondary syphilis who presented to us with features of contact irritant dermatitis. She initially tested non- reactive for VDRL testing but tested positive with higher dilution. The prozone phenomenon is attaining importance because of increasing prevalence of Acquired immune deficiency syndrome. So one needs to be familiar with the occurrence of prozone phenomenon.

Keywords: Acquired immune deficiency syndrome; flocculation test; prozone phenomenon; syphilis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports