VDRL (RPR) test for syphilis
Quick answer: A VDRL or RPR test checks for antibodies that appear in syphilis. It is a screening test and is also used to follow treatment. Doctors order it to screen for syphilis in pregnancy and before IVF or surgery. The CSF test is used when syphilis affecting the nerves is suspected.
- SampleBlood or CSF (spinal fluid)
- TakesAbout 5 minutes for blood; 20 to 30 minutes for a lumbar puncture
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed for the blood test; a CSF sample is collected by a doctor through a lumbar puncture.
- In fertility careSyphilis is screened for early in pregnancy and often before IVF, as treatment prevents it from passing to the baby.
How the test is done
- 1For blood, a nurse draws a tube from your arm
- 2For spinal fluid, a doctor does a lumbar puncture in your lower back
- 3The lab mixes your sample with a test antigen
- 4Clumping is checked and, if present, the sample is diluted to give a titre
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A reactive result can sometimes be a false positive, for example in pregnancy, so it is confirmed with a treponemal test such as TPHA.
If the result is outside the usual range
A reactive result can point to syphilis, current or recently treated, and the titre helps track treatment. False reactive results can be seen in pregnancy, some infections and autoimmune conditions.
Who usually has this test
Pregnant women, people before IVF or surgery, people with genital sores or rashes, and partners of people with syphilis.
Risks and aftercare
Nothing special after a blood test; after a lumbar puncture you may be advised to rest and drink fluids.
Names and options
Also called: VDRL, RPR, syphilis test, VDRL CSF
Options
- Serum
- CSF
Listed by the hospital as
- VDRL (RPR), CSF
- VDRL (RPR), SERUM
Where this test fits in fertility care
- 1Fertility work-up
- 2Screening before IVF or IUIThis test
- 3During treatment
- 4After embryo transfer
- 5Pregnancy check-ups
- 6If treatment has not worked
The usual order. See every test at each stage →
Questions about this test
Can VDRL be falsely positive in pregnancy?
Yes. Pregnancy, some infections and autoimmune conditions can cause a false-positive VDRL. That is why a reactive result is confirmed with a treponemal test such as TPHA before treatment decisions.
What does a VDRL titre like 1:8 mean?
The titre shows how far the sample can be diluted and still react. A fall in titre after treatment shows response, while a rise can mean reinfection.
Is syphilis in pregnancy treatable?
Yes. Treatment with penicillin during pregnancy cures the mother and usually prevents infection in the baby. Early testing in pregnancy is important.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.