VDRL (RPR) Test (Confirmatory Test for Syphilis): Costs, Purpose, Normal Range and Interpretation

Venereal Disease Research Laboratory or VDRL test is one of the key diagnostic measures in identifying Syphilis, one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. A RPR test or Rapid Plasma Reagin test can also help your healthcare detect Syphilis. 

Essentially, a VDRL blood test or a VDRL RPR test measures the number of antibodies in your body that have been produced as a response to antigens produced by the damaged cells that are affected by the Syphilis-causing bacteria. 

Syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections, when left untreated can cause severe damage to your brain, spinal cord and heart. Thus, an on-time VDRL diagnostic test for Syphilis is recommended. 

Learn everything about VDRL RPR test before you book lab test online. Understand the why, how, and what of this test.

Why Do I Need VDRL RPR Test? 

A VDRL test is usually conducted by taking a sample of your blood or cerebrospinal fluid. Whether you are exhibiting signs of Syphilis or not, you will be recommended to undergo this screening test for Syphilis. Your healthcare provider will recommend a at-home blood test or lab test if you are suspected to have early-stage Syphilis symptoms. A cerebrospinal fluid test will be recommended if your healthcare provider suspects you to have advanced-stage Syphilis. A CSF test is usually administered through a lumbar puncture-driven cerebrospinal fluid extraction and testing. 

You will be recommended to go for a VDRL blood test based on your Syphilis stage and symptoms. 

• Primary stage Syphilis - A chancre appears at the source of Syphilis infection 
• Secondary stage Syphilis - Skin rashes and lesions may appear around the mouth, vagina and anus and these can be non-itchy. 
• Latent stage - No evident symptoms of Syphilis, making the diagnosis even more challenging and critical. 
• Tertiary Syphilis - It is a life-threatening condition, which may occur after 10 to 30 years of the initial Syphilis infection and may harm the brain, eyes, heart, blood vessels, bones and joints. 

VDRL RPR test are also recommended if:

• You are pregnant - This is a routine health screening mandate and does not mean that your healthcare provider suspects you to have Syphilis infection 
• You are being treated for other STIs - You will be recommended to go for a screening test for Syphilis if you are being treated for Gonorrhoea and other STIs. 
• You have HIV 
• You are involved in high-risk sexual activities 

How To Prepare For VDRL Test?

To prepare for VDRL check-up, follow these steps: Consult your healthcare provider, inform them about medications, avoid intense exercise, follow fasting instructions if given, and provide accurate medical history.

What Happens During VDRL Testing?

During VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) testing or RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) testing, which are both used to detect syphilis, the following steps typically occur:

• As per the scheduled time of the blood test, a lab technician who usually takes blood samples will arrive.
• A thin needle will be used to draw blood from your arm’s vein.
• The needle might cause a mild pinch and some discomfort.
• The lab technician then fills a collection tube with blood and then removes the needle from the skin.
• They place a small bandage on the arm.

Should you choose to undergo a VDRL blood test - a confirmatory test for syphilis - in the convenience of your home, or should you have it administered by a medical professional at your preferred nearby clinic? Here are some considerations to help you decide:

Can I Take VDRL Test At Home?

Yes, the VDRL blood testing can be taken at home. HealthcareOnTime’s at-home lab testing service in association with Thyrocare, provides a convenient and efficient way to get important medical tests done from the comfort of your place, without the need for a doctor's visit or a trip to a lab. It is always preferable to consult with a healthcare provider about any concerns regarding your test results.

How Much Does VDRL Test Cost?

Are you curious about the VDRL Test price? At HealthcareOnTime, we believe in providing cost-effective solutions to keep you informed about your lipid profile.

The VDRL Test price may vary depending on several factors, including your location, the healthcare provider, and your insurance coverage. However, we're pleased to offer this essential test at an affordable rate of just INR 200! Our prices not only compete in the market but also maintain the highest quality standards.

In India, the cost of a VDRL Test typically starts from INR 300, but prices may vary based on the specific laboratory and city.Ensuring your syphilis status is crucial, especially if you have concerns related to sexual health.

But here's the exciting part – HealthcareOnTime is committed to making healthcare accessible to all. We provide valuable services, including affordable VDRL testing, in over 4500+ pincodes nationwide.

You've received your VDRL test results, but you may still be unsure about whether they fall within the normal range. In this section, we'll help you understand whether your VDRL test results are normal or not

What Does VDRL Test Results Mean?

VDRL test results may vary depending on a number of factors. The results can be categorised as negative, positive, false-positive and false-negative. While a VDRL test can help your healthcare provider detect non-specific antigens in your body as a response to Syphilis infection, it is not a confirmatory test for Syphilis. 

If your VDRL test result is negative, it means that you don’t have a Syphilis infection and no further diagnosis will be needed. 

If your Syphilis test VDRL result is positive, your healthcare provider will recommend a treponemal test along with the VDRL RPR test to arrive at a conclusive diagnosis. Studies cite that these methods have 78% accuracy in diagnosing early-stage Syphilis. 

Since VDRL screening test for Syphilis looks for non-specific antigens, which may be present in your body due to several reasons, there are high chances of getting false-positive results. Some of the key conditions that trigger a false-positive VDRL test result includes:

• HIV 
• Lyme disease 
• Malaria 
• Pneumonia 
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus 
• IV drug usage 
• Tuberculosis 

Your body needs 3 months or more time to produce antibodies as a response to Syphilis infection. So, you may have a false-negative VDRL test result if you have had a Syphilis infection for less than 3 months.  

Convenience at Your Doorstep

Ever wished for healthcare that comes to you? HealthcareOnTime makes it a reality with doorstep lab testing, cutting out clinic hassles. No more queues or travel stress. Experience at-home sample collection, prioritizing health without time constraints. —your path to health, now just a doorstep away!

Affordable Testing with Thyrocare Partnership

Experience cost-effective lab testing at-home with HealthcareOnTime's exclusive partnership with Thyrocare. Benefit from competitive prices while ensuring precise results. Our collaboration with Thyrocare Technologies Limited guarantees affordability without compromising on the accuracy and reliability of your lab test.

Comprehensive Health Screening

At HealthcareOnTime, we've got your back with our comprehensive health checkup packages! Take charge of your well-being by booking online. These packages empower you to stay ahead, catching potential issues early for timely management. It's like having a health ally, and making informed decisions for a healthier, happier life.

Disclaimer: Although we have endeavoured to provide accurate information on this page, we strongly recommend that you seek advice from your doctor before relying on any of the test ranges or lab-test recommendations mentioned herein.