Synonyms: Nontreponemal Test; Rapid Plasma Reagin, Qual Test; RPR; STS; Syphilis Serology

NOTICE: This is a component of the STD Panel or Antibody Screen (Coombs-Indirect) panel which may be more appealing than ordering this test alone.

Why It Is Done

*Screen for syphilis or monitor treatment for a syphilis infection. *Some states require the VDRL screening test before a couple can obtain a marriage license.*The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend that all pregnant women be screened for syphilis early in pregnancy.*Confirm that a syphilis infection is present.

Test Overview

Syphilis tests detect antibodies to the bacterium that causes syphilis (Treponema pallidum) in blood, body fluid, or tissue. The tests are used to screen for or to confirm a syphilis infection.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is usually spread during sexual contact, including kissing or oral sex. A syphilis infection can spread through the bloodstream to all parts of the body. If not treated, syphilis can cause severe heart disease, brain damage, spinal cord damage, blindness, and death.

How To Prepare

No special preparation is necessary.