VDRL Test Price in Bangladesh 2025 Updated
The VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) test is a blood test used to screen for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This test is crucial for early detection and treatment, helping prevent serious complications. In Bangladesh, the VDRL test is commonly recommended for individuals with symptoms of syphilis, during pregnancy, or as part of routine health screenings. The VDRL test price in Bangladesh typically ranges from 100 BDT to 900 BDT, depending on whether you visit a government or private facility. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the VDRL test, including its purpose, preparation, pricing, and result interpretation.
What is a VDRL Test?
The VDRL test is a non-treponemal serologic test that detects antibodies produced in response to syphilis infection. It measures the presence of cardiolipin antibodies, which are released when Treponema pallidum damages body tissues. While highly sensitive for screening, the test is not specific to syphilis and may require confirmatory tests like the TPHA (Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination Assay) for accurate diagnosis.
- Clinical Significance: The VDRL test helps identify active or past syphilis infections, aiding in timely treatment to prevent complications like neurosyphilis or congenital syphilis in newborns.
- Medical Conditions: It’s used to diagnose syphilis, monitor treatment effectiveness, and screen high-risk groups, such as pregnant women or individuals with multiple sexual partners.
- Alternative Names: Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test, syphilis serology, or non-treponemal test.
When is a VDRL Test Recommended?
Doctors recommend the VDRL test based on specific symptoms, risk factors, or routine screening protocols. It’s a vital tool for diagnosing syphilis and ensuring timely intervention.
- Symptoms Warranting the Test:
- Painless sores (chancre) on genitals, mouth, or anus
- Skin rashes, particularly on palms or soles
- Fever, swollen lymph nodes, or fatigue
- Neurological symptoms in advanced stages (e.g., vision loss, confusion)
- Risk Factors:
- Unprotected sexual activity with multiple partners
- History of sexually transmitted infections
- Pregnancy (to prevent congenital syphilis)
- Purpose:
- Screening: Routine check for high-risk individuals or pregnant women
- Diagnosis: Confirms syphilis in symptomatic patients
- Monitoring: Tracks treatment response by measuring antibody levels
VDRL Test Preparation
The VDRL test is straightforward and requires minimal preparation. Understanding the process ensures accurate results.
- Fasting Requirements: No fasting is needed. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
- Medications: Inform your doctor about medications, as some (e.g., antibiotics) may interfere with results. Avoid stopping medications without medical advice.
- Sample Collection: A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The process takes 5–10 minutes and is performed in a lab or hospital.
- Test Duration: The procedure is quick, with results typically available within 1–3 days, depending on the facility.
VDRL Test Price List in Government Hospitals in Bangladesh
Government hospitals in Bangladesh offer affordable VDRL testing, making it accessible for most patients. Below is a table listing prices at major government facilities in 2025. Prices may vary slightly; contact hospitals for confirmation.
| Hospital Name | Location | VDRL Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) | Dhaka | 100 | +880-2-55165760 |
| Dhaka Medical College Hospital | Dhaka | 120 | +880-2-55165088 |
| Chittagong Medical College Hospital | Chattogram | 100 | +880-31-619400 |
| Rajshahi Medical College Hospital | Rajshahi | 110 | +880-721-772150 |
| Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital | Sylhet | 100 | +880-821-713487 |
| Mymensingh Medical College Hospital | Mymensingh | 120 | +880-91-66063 |
| Sir Salimullah Medical College Hospital | Dhaka | 100 | +880-2-55165060 |
VDRL Test Price List in Private Hospitals in Bangladesh
Private hospitals and diagnostic centers often provide faster results and advanced facilities but at higher costs. Below is a table of VDRL test prices at prominent private facilities in 2025, based on available data and web research. Confirm prices directly with providers.
| Hospital/Diagnostic Center | Location | VDRL Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ibn Sina Diagnostic & Imaging Center | Dhaka | 400 | +880-2-9126625 |
| Popular Diagnostic Centre | Dhaka | 600 | +880-9613787810 |
| Epic Healthcare | Chattogram | 350 | +880-31-657361 |
| Labaid Diagnostic Centre | Dhaka | 500 | +880-2-58610793 |
| United Hospital | Dhaka | 700 | +880-2-8836000 |
| Square Hospital | Dhaka | 800 | +880-2-8144400 |
| Evercare Hospital Dhaka | Dhaka | 900 | +880-2-8431661 |
| Apollo Diagnostic Centre | Sylhet | 450 | +880-821-724120 |
| Medinova Diagnostic Services | Dhaka | 400 | +880-2-9111736 |
| Prime Diagnostic Centre | Rajshahi | 500 | +880-721-771115 |
Understanding VDRL Test Results
Interpreting VDRL test results requires understanding the normal range and potential causes of abnormal findings. Always consult a doctor for accurate diagnosis.
- Normal Range: A non-reactive (negative) result indicates no detectable syphilis antibodies. This typically means no active infection, though early or late-stage syphilis may yield false negatives.
- Abnormal Results:
- Reactive (Positive): Suggests current or past syphilis infection. Confirmatory tests (e.g., TPHA or FTA-ABS) are needed to rule out false positives.
- False Positives: May occur due to autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus), viral infections (e.g., hepatitis), or pregnancy.
- Factors Affecting Results:
- Recent antibiotic use
- Timing of the test (early or latent syphilis may not show antibodies)
- Coexisting medical conditions
- When to Consult a Doctor: Seek medical advice if results are reactive or if symptoms persist, even with a non-reactive result. Follow-up testing may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about the VDRL test in Bangladesh to address patient concerns.
How accurate is the VDRL test?
The VDRL test is highly sensitive for detecting syphilis but not specific. False positives are possible, so confirmatory tests like TPHA are recommended for accuracy.
How long does it take to get VDRL test results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 days, depending on the hospital or diagnostic center. Some private facilities may offer same-day results.
Is the VDRL test covered by insurance in Bangladesh?
Insurance coverage varies. Many plans in Bangladesh do not cover routine screening tests like VDRL unless part of a comprehensive health package. Check with your provider.
How often should I get a VDRL test?
High-risk individuals (e.g., those with multiple partners) or pregnant women may need annual or trimester-based testing. Consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.
What’s the difference between VDRL and TPHA tests?
VDRL is a non-treponemal screening test, while TPHA is a treponemal confirmatory test. VDRL detects antibodies to tissue damage, while TPHA specifically targets Treponema pallidum antigens.
Can the VDRL test detect other STDs?
No, the VDRL test is specific to syphilis screening. Separate tests are required for other STDs like HIV or gonorrhea.
Is the VDRL test painful?
The test involves a simple blood draw, which may cause mild discomfort but is generally painless.
Conclusion
The VDRL test is a critical tool for detecting syphilis, enabling early treatment to prevent severe health complications. In Bangladesh, the test is widely available at both government and private facilities, with prices ranging from 100 BDT to 900 BDT in 2025. Comparing VDRL test prices in Bangladesh helps you find affordable options without compromising quality. Always consult a healthcare provider to interpret results and plan treatment if needed. For the latest pricing and availability, contact hospitals directly or visit HospitalBangla.com for updated information.
