VDRL Test (RPR, Serum)

What Does the VDRL Test Measure?

The VDRL blood test measures specific aspects related to syphilis infection:

• Screening for Syphilis: Serves as a preliminary test to check for possible syphilis infection, especially in individuals with symptoms or those in high-risk groups.
• Routine Health Checkups: A mandatory part of antenatal care in India to prevent transmission from mother to baby (congenital syphilis).
• Treatment Monitoring: Tracks antibody levels to confirm that syphilis treatment is working effectively.
• Public Health Surveillance: Helps in disease control and prevention programmes.

VDRL Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What Symptoms May Call for a VDRL Test?

Your doctor may recommend a VDRL blood test if you show symptoms of syphilis, which vary depending on the infection stage:

• Single, small, painless sore (chancre) on genitals, rectum, or mouth
• Non-itchy skin rash, especially on palms and soles of feet
• Swollen lymph nodes, fever, sore throat, and fatigue
• Patchy hair loss and muscle aches
• In later stages, symptoms may disappear for years before causing serious organ damage.

Who Should Get a VDRL Test?

The VDRL syphilis test is recommended for specific groups of people:

• Patients with symptoms: Anyone showing signs of syphilis infection
• Pregnant women: Routine antenatal screening to protect the baby from congenital syphilis
• High-risk individuals: People with multiple sexual partners or those engaging in unprotected sex.
• People with other STIs: If diagnosed with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections
• Screening purposes: Before marriage, blood donation, or as part of a routine health risk assessment.

Why Is a VDRL Test Done?

A VDRL blood test is performed as a quick, widely available method to screen for syphilis. Early detection allows for prompt antibiotic treatment, which can cure the infection and prevent serious, life-threatening complications.

Importance of a VDRL Test

The VDRL syphilis test holds significant clinical importance for several reasons. It enables early detection and prevention by identifying syphilis in its most treatable stages, preventing unknowing transmission to others and stopping progression to severe stages that damage vital organs.

As a crucial public health tool, it helps prevent congenital syphilis through routine screening of pregnant women, protecting newborns from severe developmental issues or death. The test is also essential for treatment monitoring, as decreasing antibody levels indicate successful antibiotic therapy, making it invaluable for comprehensive patient care.

VDRL Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to Book a VDRL Test?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select the 'VDRL Test', choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure the timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL- & CAP-accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
5. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is Home Blood Sample Collection for the VDRL Test Available Near You?

Yes, home blood sample collection is available for VDRL testing through Metropolis Healthcare's comprehensive network of 10,000+ touchpoints across India. Our trained phlebotomists visit your home at your preferred time, following strict safety protocols to collect your blood sample professionally. This service eliminates the need to visit a pathology lab, making it particularly beneficial for individuals with busy schedules, the elderly, pregnant patients, or those with mobility concerns.

How Long Does It Take to Get a VDRL Test Report?

Reports are usually available within 6 hours once the sample reaches the lab.

Note: Reporting time and cost may vary depending on your location.

Where Can I See or Get the VDRL Test Results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting the VDRL Test Results

What Your VDRL Test Results May Indicate

The following table explains what your VDRL test results mean and their clinical significance:

Conditions that May Affect VDRL Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence your VDRL test results and should be discussed with your doctor:

• Autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatic disorders can produce biological false-positive reactions.
• Recent infections such as malaria, or leprosy can affect test accuracy.
• Pregnancy may lead to biological false positives.
• Intravenous drug use or liver failure can interfere with results.
• Recent vaccinations might temporarily affect antibody levels.
• Living in areas where yaws, pinta, or non-venereal syphilis are endemic may cause positive results.

How Is a VDRL Test Done?

The VDRL syphilis test procedure is simple and follows standard blood collection protocols:

• A healthcare professional ties an elastic band around your upper arm to make veins visible.
• The area inside your elbow is cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
• A sterile needle is inserted into a vein to collect 3-5 ml of blood into a gel vacutainer.
• The needle is removed, and a cotton ball or bandage is placed on the puncture site.
• Your blood sample is sent to the laboratory for the flocculation method testing.
• Results are processed and reported within 6 hours from sample receipt at the laboratory.

How Should You Prepare for a VDRL Test?

Preparing for a VDRL test is straightforward with minimal requirements:

• No fasting required: You can eat and drink normally before the test.
• No special dietary restrictions: Continue your regular meals and beverages.
• Inform about medications: Tell your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines you're taking.
• Share medical history: Mention any autoimmune conditions, recent infections, or pregnancies.
• Stay hydrated: Drink adequate water to make blood collection easier.

Diseases that a VDRL Test Can Help Detect

The VDRL syphilis test primarily helps detect and monitor specific health conditions:

• Primary syphilis (early-stage infection with characteristic sores)
• Secondary syphilis (skin rash and systemic symptoms)
• Latent syphilis (hidden infection without visible symptoms)
• Congenital syphilis (infection passed from mother to baby)
• Treatment response monitoring for diagnosed syphilis cases

VDRL Tests/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

The following table shows related tests and packages available for comprehensive syphilis screening:

VDRL Test Prices in Different Cities

The cost of a VDRL test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities:

Reference:

• Egglestone SI, Turner AJ. Serological diagnosis of syphilis. PHLS Syphilis Serology Working Group. Commun Dis Public Health.2000;3:158–62
• Augenbraun MH, DeHovitz JA, Feldman J, Clarke L, Landesman S, Minkoff HM. Biological false-positive syphilis test results for women infected with human immunodeficiency virus. Clin Infect Dis. 1994;19:1040–4.
• Naidu NK, Bharucha ZS, Sonawane V, Ahmed I. Comparative study of Treponemal and non-Treponemal test for screening of blood donated at a blood center. Asian J Transfus Sci. 2012;6:32–5.