VDRL Titer, Spinal Fluid
Use
The VDRL Titer test in spinal fluid aids in the diagnosis of neurosyphilis by detecting reaginic antibodies using a cardiolipin-cholesterol-lecithin antigen. This nontreponemal serologic test can indicate neurosyphilis in untreated patients by the presence of pleocytosis, elevated protein, and a positive VDRL result. The test is highly specific for diagnosing neurosyphilis when a positive result is obtained in spinal fluid.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The VDRL test using spinal fluid specimens has a high percentage of false-negative results. Conditions such as improper specimen collection, inappropriate test selection, and interfering substances can lead to diagnostic confusion. Gross hemolysis and gross lipemia are conditions that may cause the specimen to be rejected for testing.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Other (Flocculation/Agglutination)
Biomarkers
Reaginic Antibodies
Other
LOINC Codes
- 31146-4 - VDRL CSF-Titr
- 31146-4 - VDRL CSF-Titr
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Submit specimen collected in vial 2 if possible. If not, note which vial from which the aliquot was obtained.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |