VDRL test
What is VDRL test?
VDRL stands for Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test and is used to detect syphilis infection. It is a very common screening test ordered by healthcare providers, as syphilis is a serious communicable disease. The standard VDRL test is a non-treponemal antigen test, meaning that the antibodies present in the blood will not test positive for the actual infection, while a positive reaction result (titer) indicates that the person has recently been exposed to the pathogenic bacteria that causes syphilis, Treponema pallidum.
Preparation for VDRL test
No preparation is necessary for the VDRL test. The only requirement is that you show up to your appointment with an empty stomach. A fasting period of 12 hours is not required for this test, but it is advisable to avoid eating a heavy meal prior to the test.
Procedure for VDRL test
The VDRL test is a simple blood test, and a tourniquet will be applied to the arm prior to the test being performed. The health care provider will use a needle to withdraw blood from the arm vein. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is tested to detect the presence of the antibodies that cause syphilis infection.
Types of VDRL test
There are two types of VDRL tests: the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) and the Venereal Disease ResearchLaboratory (VDRL) test. The RPR test is the most common type of VDRL test and is a very sensitive screening test for syphilis infection. The VDRL test is another type of non-treponemal antigen test, and it is used to measure levels of antibodies present in the bloodstream.
Risks associated with VDRL test
The VDRL test is generally considered to be a very low-risk procedure, and the risk of complications are minimal. There may be some minor discomfort associated with having a needle inserted in the arm, but this usually lasts for a few seconds and is not considered to be serious or life-threatening.
Why is VDRL test Important?
The VDRL test is an important screening test for syphilis infection. Syphilis is a serious communicable disease, and it is important to screen for the infection so that early treatment can be offered. The earlier the infection is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of a successful outcome.
When should a person get VDRL Test?
If a person has engaged in unprotected sexual activity, or if they have been in contact with someone who has syphilis, they should consider getting tested. The VDRL test is usually ordered during the initial examination when a person is suspected of having been exposed to the bacteria that causes syphilis. In addition, people who are pregnant should consider getting tested for syphilis infection to ensure the health of the fetus.
