VDRL

The VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) test is the most common screening blood test used to detect Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

Syphilis is known as "The Great Imitator" because its symptoms often look like other diseases or may go unnoticed for years. The VDRL test is a simple, effective way to screen your blood for antibodies produced by your body in response to this infection.

Syphilis is easily curable with antibiotics in its early stages but can cause severe damage to the heart and brain if left untreated, routine screening is vital. Doctors recommend this test for:

• Pregnancy: It is a mandatory part of prenatal care to prevent passing the infection to the baby.
• Symptoms of STI: If you have painless sores (chancres), rashes on palms/soles, or swollen lymph nodes.
• Routine Screening: For those with new sexual partners or multiple partners.
• Visa & Immigration: Required for residency or work permits in many countries.
• Treatment Monitoring: Unlike other tests, VDRL is used to track if your Syphilis treatment is working (the levels will drop as you get better).