The VDRL test (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test) is a blood test used to detect syphilis infection. Syphilis is a very common transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Treponema pallidum bacteria. The test detects antibodies that the body produces in response to the syphilis bacteria.
Doctors may recommend the test for individuals displaying symptoms like genital sores, rashes, or flu-like symptoms, or as a routine prenatal screening during pregnancy. The VDRL test price in India varies, typically ranging from Rs 119 to Rs 240, depending on the diagnostic center and city.
| Also Known As | Venereal Disease Reactive Test, Venereal Disease Serum Test, Serum Diagnosis of Syphilis, Flocculation Test, Wassermann Test, Rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test |
| Purpose | To screen for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection by detecting the corresponding antibodies in the blood that may indicate a current or past infection. Prenatal screening (Pregnancy) |
| Preparation | No special preparation is usually required |
| Fasting | No |
| Reporting Time | <24 Hours |
| Cost | Rs 119 to Rs 240 |
The VDRL Test Price usually ranges from Rs 119 to Rs 240. The actual price depends on the diagnostic centre and the city. Bookmerilab partners with more than 506 diagnostic centres across India. We provide a 10-50% discount on medical diagnostic tests.
The table below lists the prices at some of the popular diagnostic centres.
| Name of Lab | Test Price |
|---|---|
| Redcliffe Labs | Rs 119 |
| Aarthi Scan | Rs 135 |
| Mahajan Imaging | Rs 144 |
| City X-Ray | Rs 188 |
| Shree Krishna Diagnostics | Rs 240 |
| Dr. Lal Pathlabs | Rs 170 |
| Janta X-Ray Clinic | Rs 180 |
| Vijaya Diagnostics | Rs 200 |
The test cost depends upon the one recommended by your healthcare professional. The cost varies depending on the lab and the city.
| City | Test Price |
|---|---|
| VDRL Test Price in Delhi | Rs 98 to Rs 207 |
| VDRL Test Price in Mumbai | Rs 119 to Rs 200 |
| VDRL Test Price in Bangalore | Rs 119 to Rs 135 |
| VDRL Test Price in Hyderabad | Rs 117 to Rs 263 |
| VDRL Test Price in Gurgaon | Rs 119 to Rs 250 |
| VDRL Test Price in Chennai | Rs 119 to Rs 170 |
| VDRL Test Price in Kolkata | Rs 117 to Rs 120 |
The VDRL test full form is Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test. It is a non-treponemal blood test that detects syphilis antibodies. Unlike treponemal tests, which directly detect the bacteria, the VDRL blood test identifies the body’s immune response, making it useful for both initial screening and monitoring treatment effectiveness.
Your doctor may recommend a VDRL (RPR) test for the following purposes
This test does not require any special preparation. It’s crucial to let the doctor know if you have a bleeding issue or are using blood-thinning drugs because the test requires collecting a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm.
Also, let your doctor know about any vitamins, drugs, or herbal remedies you’re using because some of them may alter how accurately the test results come back. Doctors advise wearing short sleeves or sleeveless shirts on the day of the test to make it easier to take blood from the arm.
It is a fairly simple diagnostic blood test. A blood sample is taken from the vein in your arm or hand by the following steps-
The entire procedure takes only a few minutes.
In cases wherein the doctors suspect the infection to have reached the brain, a sample of CSF (Cerebrospinal fluid) taken through a lumbar puncture may be tested.
It is a very simple and safe test. The risks involved are the same as that of any other blood test. These include-
Minor pain and bruising that might occur will resolve on their own in a very short time.
The results of this test are reported as either non-reactive (negative) or reactive (positive).
The positive test result indicates the presence of antibodies that suggest a current or past infection with syphilis. If the test is positive, additional testing such as TPHA & FTA-Abs may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of the infection.
Negative test result indicates that there are no syphilis antibodies present in the blood sample.
| Result | Reference Range | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Reactive | Titers of more than 1:8 | Indicates the presence of IgG and IgM antibodies against non-treponemal antigens |
| Non-Reactive | Not Reported | Indicates the absence of IgG and IgM antibodies against non-treponemal antigens |
Positive results indicate the presence of syphilis antibodies, but they do not necessarily imply that someone has syphilis because false-positive results might happen. For example, a positive result may occur in patients with autoimmune diseases, certain infections, or certain cancers. Healthcare providers typically carry out additional tests, such as a confirming treponemal test, to confirm the diagnosis and establish the stage of the infection.
In conclusion, the VDRL test is a blood test used to determine the presence of antibodies to the syphilis-causing bacterium. Doctors typically use antibiotics to treat syphilis. Healthcare professionals frequently advise patients who have syphilis symptoms or who are at risk of developing the virus to undergo this reasonably quick and easy test. Regarding syphilis testing and treatment, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, it’s crucial to listen to the advice of your healthcare professional.
A: A positive VDRL test result indicates the presence of antibodies to the bacteria that cause syphilis, but a confirmatory treponemal test is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
A: The VDRL test is a simple blood test that is usually not painful. However, some people may experience mild discomfort or a slight pinch at the site of the needle insertion.
A: The results of a VDRL test are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory that performs the test.
A: Yes, a VDRL test can give a false-positive result. For example, it can indicate the presence of syphilis antibodies when there is no infection present.
This is more likely to occur in people with certain medical conditions or who have recently been vaccinated.
A: No, fasting is not required for a VDRL test. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you may be taking, as they can affect the test results.
Dr Garima Saroj is a dentist from Manipal college of dental sciences. She has previously worked at ESIC dental college and hospital Delhi and Dentecare multispecialty dental clinic Gurugram. She has a passion for writing for patient education and awareness.
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