What is the Full Form of VDRL? Know Everything About It

The VDRL test, also known as the Veneral Disease Research Laboratory test, is a simple blood test used to check for syphilis, a type of sexually transmitted infection. It does not find the bacteria directly but looks for special proteins called antibodies made by the body. This test helps doctors find the infection early, even if there are no symptoms and start proper treatment.

Full Form of VDRL

The full form of VDRL is Veneral Disease Research Laboratory. It is a simple blood test used to check if a person has syphilis, which is a type of Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). Syphilis is caused by a harmful bacterium called Treponema pallidum. This bacterium can enter the body through the mouth or private parts and cause infection.

What Does the VDRL Test Do?

The VDRL test does not directly find the bacteria that cause syphilis. Instead, it checks if your body has made antibodies to fight the infection. These antibodies are made when the body’s cells are damaged by the bacteria. If these antibodies are present in your blood, it may mean you have syphilis.

When is the VDRL Test Needed?

Doctors may advise a VDRL test if they think someone might have syphilis. Some early signs of syphilis include:

• A small, painless sore
• Swollen glands near the sore
• A rash that does not

Even without symptoms, doctors might still suggest the test. For example, pregnant women are often tested as a part of regular checkups. Also, if someone has another STI like gonorrhea, or if they have HIV or had unsafe sex, doctors may recommend this test.

How is the VDRL Test Done?

To do the VDRL test:

• A small amount of blood is taken from your arm or hand.
• The blood is sent to a lab to check for syphilis antibodies.
• Usually, you don’t need to fast or stop any medicines before the test.

In some serious cases, if the doctor thinks the infection may have spread to your brain, they might also test your spinal fluid.

Understanding the VDRL Test Results

• Negative Result: No antibodies found. You likely don’t have syphilis.
• Positive Result: Antibodies found. You might have syphilis, but other tests are needed to confirm.

One important test used after a positive VDRL result is called the Treponemal test, which checks for specific antibodies made against the bacteria Treponema pallidum.

Significance of VDRL Test

Syphilis can be curd with proper treatment. But if left untreated, it can spread in the body and harm important organs. The VDRL test helps doctors find syphilis early so treatment can start quickly.