The venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) test is designed to assess whether you

have syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Syphilis is caused by the bacterium

Treponema pallidum. The bacterium infects by penetrating into the lining of the mouth or

genital area.This test is used to screen for syphilis. The bacteria that cause syphilis is called

Treponema pallidum.