Can the VDRL test find syphilis infection after 9 years of first exposure?
Yes. The VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) test is a highly sensitive test used to screen individuals for exposure to syphilis. However, although this particular test is used to screen for positive exposure to syphilis, a biologic false positive (BFP) result is possible. Therefore, a reactive VDRL requires an immediate confirmatory test such as the Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody (FTA) or the Treponema Pallidum Particle Agglutination test (TP-PA). If the confirmatory test is positive, your health care provider will take the necessary steps to ensure proper treatment of the syphilis infection.
