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CSF-VDRL test

Venereal disease research laboratory slide test - CSF

 

The CSF-VDRL test is used to help diagnose neurosyphilis. It looks for substances called antibodies, which are sometimes produced by the body in reaction to the syphilis-causing bacteria.

How the Test is Performed

 

A sample of spinal fluid is needed .

 

How to Prepare for the Test

 

Follow the health care provider's instructions on how to prepare for this test.

 

Why the Test is Performed

 

The CSF-VDRL test is done to diagnose syphilis in the brain or spinal cord. Brain and spinal cord involvement is often a sign of late-stage syphilis.

Blood screening tests ( VDRL and RPR ) are better at detecting middle-stage (secondary) syphilis.

 

Normal Results

 

A negative result is normal.

False-negatives can occur. This means you can have syphilis even if this test is normal. Therefore, a negative test does not always rule out the infection. Other signs and tests may be used to diagnose neurosyphilis .

 

What Abnormal Results Mean

 

A positive result is abnormal and is a sign of neurosyphilis.

 

 

References

LaSala PR, Smith MB. Spirochete infections. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods . 22nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 59.

Radolf JD, Tramont EC, Salazar JC. Syphilis ( Treponema pallidum ). In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases . 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 239.

 
  • CSF test for syphilis - illustration

    Venereal disease research laboratory test (VDRL) of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is used to screen for syphilis. CSF is a clear fluid that circulates in the space surrounding the spinal cord.

    CSF test for syphilis

    illustration

    • CSF test for syphilis - illustration

      Venereal disease research laboratory test (VDRL) of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is used to screen for syphilis. CSF is a clear fluid that circulates in the space surrounding the spinal cord.

      CSF test for syphilis

      illustration

    A Closer Look

     

      Self Care

       

        Tests for CSF-VDRL test

         

         

        Review Date: 9/10/2015

        Reviewed By: Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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