<prompt> Answer this question truthfullyWhat is the process for confirming a positive screening test for Treponema pallidum, and what are the specific tests used in the process?  <response>: <reason> A positive screening test for Treponema pallidum, which is the bacteria that causes syphilis, is typically confirmed via a more specific test such as FTA-ABS fluorescent treponemal antibody-absorption. The screening tests used to detect syphilis include VDRL Venereal Disease Research Laboratory or RPR Rapid Plasma Reagin, but these tests can produce false-positive results in some cases. Therefore, a positive screening test for syphilis must be confirmed via a more specific test such as FTA-ABS. This test detects antibodies to Treponema pallidum and is highly specific for syphilis. 