Syphilis Test in Kathmandu

About this test

This blood test screens for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Two complementary types of test are used together. Non-treponemal tests (VDRL or RPR) detect antibodies that rise and fall with disease activity, so they are useful both for diagnosis and for monitoring how well treatment is working. Treponemal tests (TPHA or specific antibody assays) confirm exposure to the organism itself and stay positive for life, even after successful cure. A reactive screening result is therefore always confirmed with the second type before a diagnosis is made, because conditions such as pregnancy, autoimmune disease and some viral infections can cause a falsely reactive VDRL. Doctors order this test when there is a painless genital ulcer (the primary chancre), a non-itchy rash on the trunk, palms or soles, unexplained swollen lymph nodes, or after unprotected sexual contact with a new or untreated partner. Untreated syphilis can stay silent for years before damaging the heart, brain and nerves, which is why screening matters even when there are no symptoms. In Nepal it is part of the routine antenatal panel for every pregnant woman, because syphilis crosses the placenta and can cause stillbirth or serious harm to the baby — and it is fully preventable with timely penicillin. It is also recommended before blood donation, alongside HIV and hepatitis B and C testing, and as part of any broader sexual-health check.

Sample type

Blood (serum)

Preparation

No fasting required. Drink water normally. If you are being screened because of a possible recent exposure, tell us the approximate date — antibodies can take a few weeks to appear, and very early infection may need a repeat test.

Turnaround time

Reports for Syphilis are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other immunology tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside Syphilis or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.