Ordering Recommendation

Acceptable initial screening test for syphilis (traditional algorithm). May use to confirm reactive treponemal test (eg, EIA, CIA) (reverse algorithm). Acceptable test for monitoring treatment response in established syphilis.

New York DOH Approval Status

This test is New York state approved.

Specimen Required

Patient Preparation
Collect

Plain red or serum separator tube.

Specimen Preparation

Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 1 mL serum to an ARUP standard transport tube (Min: 0.4 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Unacceptable Conditions

CSF or other body fluids. Contaminated, heat-inactivated, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens.

Remarks
Stability

After separation from cells: Ambient: 48 hours; Refrigerated: 2 weeks; Frozen: 1 year (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles)

Methodology

Semi-Quantitative Flocculation

Performed

Sun-Sat

Reported

1-2 days

Reference Interval

Nonreactive

Interpretive Data

VDRL as a screening test is less sensitive than RPR.

Compliance Category

FDA

Note

If VDRL is reactive, a titer will be added. Additional charges apply.

Hotline History

N/A

CPT Codes

86592; if reflexed, add 86593

Components

Component Test Code* Component Chart Name LOINC
0098975 Treponema pallidum (VDRL), Serum 5292-8
* Component test codes cannot be used to order tests. The information provided here is not sufficient for interface builds; for a complete test mix, please click the sidebar link to access the Interface Map.

Aliases

  • Syphilis, Serum
  • Treponema pallidum, Serum
  • VDRL Reflex to titer
  • VDRL, Serum
Treponema pallidum (VDRL), Serum with Reflex to Titer