OVERVIEW:
What are the VDRL/RPR tests?
VDRL/RPR tests are screening tests done to detect and diagnose syphilis.
Why are the VDRL/RPR tests done?
VDRL/RPR tests are done in order to detect and diagnose syphilis; a sexually transmitted bacterial disease. VDRL/RPR tests are also done when a person’s sexual partner is suffering from syphilis or if a person starts experiencing symptoms specific to syphilis.
What do VDRL/RPR tests measure?
VDRL/RPR tests detect the presence of antibodies that are produced in response to the bacteria that cause syphilis.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no known risks associated with this test.
What is the full form of VDRL and RPR?
VDRL stands for venereal disease research laboratory and RPR stands for rapid plasma reagin.
What does a positive RPR test mean?
A positive test result indicates that you may have syphilis.
When do VDRL/RPR tests become positive?
VDRL/RPR tests become positive approximately 6-8 weeks after infection.
Are these tests reliable to diagnose late-stage syphilis?
These tests are not reliable to diagnose late-stage syphilis.
If your test results come back as negative or normal that means you are not suffering from syphilis.
If your test results come back as positive that means you are suffering from syphilis and you will need further testing to confirm it.
VDRL/RPR tests are done in order to detect and diagnose syphilis; a sexually transmitted bacterial disease. VDRL/RPR tests are also done when a person’s sexual partner is suffering from syphilis or if a person starts experiencing symptoms specific to syphilis.