VDRL Test in Kathmandu

About this test

The VDRL is a blood test used to screen for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Rather than detecting the bacterium directly, it picks up antibodies your body makes against substances released when cells are damaged during infection — which is why it is called a non-treponemal test. A doctor commonly orders it during antenatal check-ups (every pregnant woman in Nepal is screened, because untreated syphilis can pass to the baby and cause stillbirth or congenital deformities), before blood donation, as part of a general sexually transmitted infection screen, and when someone has a painless genital ulcer, an unexplained body rash that includes the palms and soles, or swollen glands. It is also requested before certain surgeries and as routine screening in some employment and visa medicals. A reactive (positive) result is usually reported with a titre, such as 1:8 or 1:32, which helps gauge disease activity and later confirms whether treatment is working — the titre should fall after successful penicillin therapy. Because the VDRL can occasionally give a false-positive reaction in pregnancy, recent viral illness, tuberculosis, or autoimmune conditions, a reactive result is always confirmed with a specific treponemal test such as TPHA or FTA-ABS before a diagnosis is made. A non-reactive result very early after exposure does not fully exclude infection, so repeat testing may be advised. Interpreted alongside your clinical history and confirmatory testing, the VDRL remains a simple, inexpensive, and reliable first step in detecting a fully curable infection.

Sample type

Blood (serum)

Preparation

No fasting required. Drink water normally. If you are being tested as part of a couple or after a possible exposure, your doctor may suggest repeating the test after a few weeks, as antibodies take time to appear.

Turnaround time

Reports for VDRL 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 VDRL 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.