CSF-VDRL test

A sample of spinal fluid is needed.

Follow your health care provider's instructions on how to prepare for this test.

The CSF-VDRL test is done to diagnose syphilis in the brain or spinal cord. Brain and spinal cord involvement is often a sign of late-stage syphilis. Blood screening tests ( VDRL and RPR ) are better at detecting middle-stage (secondary or latent) syphilis.

A negative result is normal. False-negatives can occur. This means you can have syphilis even if this test is normal. Therefore, a negative test does not always rule out the infection. Other signs and tests may be used to diagnose neurosyphilis.

A positive result is abnormal and is a sign of neurosyphilis.

Risks for this test are those related to lumbar puncture, which may include: Bleeding into the spinal canal or around the brain (subdural hematomas). Discomfort during the test. Headache after the test that can last a few hours or days. If headaches last more than a few days (especially when you sit, stand or walk)…

Karcher DS, McPherson RA. Cerebrospinal, synovial, serous body fluids, and alternative specimens. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods . 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 30. Radolf JD, Tramont EC, Salazar JC. Syphilis ( Treponema pallidum ).…