Treponema pallidum (VDRL) CSF with Reflex to Titer

Specimens will be screened for the detection of reagin antibodies. Reagin antibodies are non-treponemal antibodies produced by the body's defense mechanism in response to an infection with Treponema pallidum. If the VDRL is reactive, a quantitative titer will be done. 

Immunology

Micro-Flocculation

One 6 mL red top vacutainer tube or a sterile tube not containing any coagulants. Refer to the Additional Information section for details regarding VDRL testing. 

0.5 mL CSF
Store specimens at refrigerator temperature (2-8° C) prior to shipment.
Specimens should be sent daily or next working day.
Transport in MSPHL shipping containers at room temperature.

Immunology Sample Submission Instructions

CSF(cerebrospinal fluid)
A serum specimen needs to accompany the VDRL - CSF. Only if the Syphilis TP is reactive, will the VDRL be performed. If the specimen is from a patient 2 years of age or younger, the VDRL will be performed even if the Syphilis TP is non-reactive.

Immunology Test Request Form
Instructions for completing the Test Request Form

Reactive
Non-Reactive
Test Cancelled/Unsatisfactory

Severely Hemolyzed Specimens 
No Name on Specimen
Name on Specimen Does Not Match Name on Request Form
Quantity Not Sufficient

Hemolysis and bacterial contamination

Batch testing is performed weekly.

N/A

86592 VDRL; if reflexed, add 86593 VDRL titer

VDRL:  5290-2
VDRL Titer:  31146-4

Biological false positive reactions occur occasionally with the carbon antigen (RPR) from individuals with a history of drug abuse, or with diseases such as lupus erythematosus, malaria, vaccinia, mononucleosis, leprosy, viral pneumonia, and after smallpox vaccinations.  Pinta, yaws, bejel, and other treponemal diseases produce positive reactions in this test.  A final diagnosis should not be made on the result of a single test, but should be based on a correlation of test results with other clinical findings.