Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) CSF

TEST DESCRIPTION

Microscopic flocculation slide test that detects antilipid antibodies (reagin) in the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) of persons with neurosyphilis. Treponema pallidum, the causative agent of syphilis, induces the production of at least two types of antibodies in CSF: anti-treponemal antibodies that can be detected by the FTA-ABS test and non-treponemal antibodies (reagin) that can be detected by the VDRL test. A reactive VRDL qualitative test will reflex to a VDRL titer.

Note: A positive syphilis serum test for a patient should precede a VDRL CSF test.

Methodology

Qualitative immunoassay

Reference range

Non-reactive

TEST FREQUENCY & RESULT AVAILABILITY

Performed twice weekly. Results are typically available within three business days after specimen receipt.

ACCEPTABLE SPECIMEN TYPES AND COLLECTION

CSF: Collect approximately 1 ml in a sterile container. Minimum volume of 0.2 ml.

SPECIMEN STORAGE

Store refrigerated (2–8 °C/36–46 °F) for up to 5 days.

SPECIMEN TRANSPORT

Shipping conditions should follow the temperature and time requirements outlined above. Refrigerated specimens should be transported on wet ice.

REJECTION CRITERIA

Holding time greater than 5 days refrigerated
Specimen container not labeled
Specimen container not sealed properly

CODES

CPT: 86592
LOINC: 14904-7
Test code: 5060

TEST FEE

Refer to the current fee schedule.