Syphilis serology (vdrl, rpr)
Microbiology
Notes
- The information given here is intended for use by healthcare professionals. Please see Lab Tests Online-UK for more general advice, links and background
- A combined syphilis IgG/IgM test is performed on all samples requiring syphilis serology
- An RPR test (equivalent to a VDRL test) is only performed on combined IgG/IgM positive samples as an indicator of activity status
- All positive combined IgG/IgM positive samples are confirmed with a second immunoassay.
- All positive samples and discrepant results are referred to the regional reference laboratory for confirmation
- In very early primary syphilis a false negative serology result may be obtained. If there is a high index of clinical suspicion send a repeat sample after one week
Sample requirements
Serum - paired samples not required
8.5ml of blood taken into a plain gel tube
Neonatal samples into a 1 mL serum tube
Required information
- Relevant clinical details
- Date of onset
- Details of exposure to other suspected cases
- Past history of syphilis
- Treatment history
Storage/transport
Store at fridge temperature
Transport as soon as possible at ambient temperature
Turnaround time
Positive samples referred to a Regional Reference Centre
Negatives: up to 5 days
Positives: up to 5 days for initial results and up to 8 days for confirmation