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CSF test for syphilis

Overview Risks Results

CSF VDRL test

Alternative Names: Venereal Disease Research Laboratory slide test - CSF What the risks are: Risks of lumbar puncture include: Hypersensitivity (allergic) reaction to the anesthetic Discomfort during the test Headache after the test Bleeding into the spinal canal Brain herniation (if performed on a person with increased intracranial pressure) which may result in brain damage or death Damage to the spinal cord or nerve roots Special considerations: Since the CSF VDRL test can have false negative results, additional tests such as protein levels and white blood cell counts may be done on the spinal fluid to diagnose neurosyphilis. References: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for Syphilis Infection: Recommendation Statement. Ann Fam Med 2004; 2: 362-365. Text Continues Below

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