Lab test · Infection
VDRL Test for Syphilis
Syphilis check
- Blood sample
- No fasting
- Report within 24 hours
- Home collection
What this test is for
Syphilis check
The VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) test is a screening blood test for syphilis, a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that can also pass from mother to baby in pregnancy. It detects antibodies the body makes in response to the infection rather than antibodies against the bacterium itself. A reactive result is confirmed with a specific test such as TPHA, and the VDRL level is also used to follow the response to treatment.
Why a doctor may order it
- As part of routine screening in pregnancy
- A painless sore on the genitals or mouth, or a rash on the palms and soles
- As part of pre-marital, pre-employment or sexual health screening
- When a sexual partner has been diagnosed with syphilis
- To check the response to syphilis treatment
How to prepare
Fasting: Not needed.
No preparation is needed. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or have an autoimmune condition, as these can occasionally cause a false-positive result.
At home
- Sample
- Blood sample
- How it works
- A collector takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm at home, which many people find more private. It takes a few minutes, and the tube is labelled with your details only.
- Report
- Within 24 hours of collection.
What the results can mean
A non-reactive result means no evidence of syphilis was found, although a very recent infection can be missed. A reactive result needs confirming with a specific test such as TPHA, because pregnancy, some infections and autoimmune conditions can cause false positives. After treatment, a falling VDRL level shows the treatment is working. Your doctor will interpret the result and explain the next steps.
What's included
One test: VDRL Test for Syphilis, from one blood sample.
Related tests
Questions people ask
What is the difference between VDRL and TPHA?
VDRL is a screening test that can be falsely positive and is used to follow treatment. TPHA detects antibodies against the syphilis bacterium itself and is used to confirm the diagnosis.
Can a VDRL test be falsely positive?
Yes. Pregnancy, some infections, older age and autoimmune conditions such as lupus can cause a reactive VDRL without syphilis. A confirmatory test sorts this out.
Why is syphilis tested in pregnancy?
Syphilis can pass to the baby and cause serious harm. It can be treated during pregnancy, which greatly lowers the risk to the baby.
Is syphilis curable?
Yes. Syphilis is treated with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, and sexual partners should also be tested.
How much does a VDRL test cost in Dhaka?
With Mukti Health the price is ৳350, and the sample is collected at your home in Dhaka. You see the price again before you confirm the booking in the Mukti Health app.
Can I do the VDRL test at home in Dhaka?
Yes. Book it in the Mukti Health app and a trained sample collector comes to your home in Dhaka to take the blood sample. You do not need to go to a laboratory.
How long does the VDRL report take?
The report is usually ready within 24 hours of the sample being collected.