What is the primary purpose of the VDRL test in medical diagnostics?

The primary purpose of the VDRL test is to detect syphilis infection. This test is a type of non-treponemal serological test that looks for antibodies in the patient’s blood that may indicate an active syphilis infection. The VDRL test is used as a screening tool because it can identify antibodies that are present in individuals with active syphilis, although it should be noted that further confirmatory testing is typically required to establish a definitive diagnosis.

In clinical practice, identifying syphilis early is crucial due to its potential for severe complications if left untreated, including cardiovascular and neurological issues. The VDRL test can also be used to monitor the treatment of syphilis over time, as levels of antibodies should decrease in response to effective treatment.