What is VDRL (Syphilis)?

The venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) test is designed to assess whether you have syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The bacterium infects by penetrating into the lining of the mouth or genital area. It checks for the antibodies your body makes in response to antigens produced by cells damaged by the bacteria.

What the VDRL (Syphilis) test used for?

This test is used to screen for syphilis. The bacteria that cause syphilis is called Treponema pallidum. Your health care provider may order this test if you have signs and symptoms of a sexually transmitted illness (STI). Syphilis screening is a routine part of prenatal care during pregnancy.

How is the procedure performed?

A blood sample drawn from a vein at the crease of the elbow or the back of the hand. You may want to wear a shirt with sleeves that can easily be rolled up to make it easier to collect the blood sample. This blood sample will then be sent to a laboratory and tested for the antibodies produced as a result of syphilis.

The VDRL test doesn’t require you to fast or stop taking any medications. If your doctor wants you to make an exception, they’ll let you know before your test. If your doctor suspects that the syphilis infection has spread to your brain, your doctor may choose to test your spinal fluid in addition to your blood.

What will be the results interprets?

The screening test is most likely to be positive in the secondary and latent stages of syphilis. This test may give a false-negative result during early- and late-stage syphilis. This test must be confirmed with another blood test to make the diagnosis of syphilis. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results.