Both the RPR and VLDR tests use blood as the specimen to detect syphilis. However, in the late stages of syphilis, it involves the central nervous system or what is termed as neurosyphilis. A VDLR is the only test that can be performed using CSF or cerebrospinal fluid.
Oatmeal, oat bran and high-fiber foods. Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, which reduces your low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the bad cholesterol. Soluble fiber is also found in such foods as kidney beans, apples, pears, barley and prunes. Soluble fiber can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Five to 10 grams or more of soluble fiber a day decreases your total and LDL cholesterol. Eating 1 1/2 cups of cooked oatmeal provides 6 grams of fiber. If you add fruit, such as bananas, you'll add about 4 more grams of fiber. To mix it up a little, try steel-cut oatmeal or cold cereal made with oatmeal or oat bran.
Nuts Are High in Fat, So How Can They Lower Cholesterol? Nuts, such as almonds, pistachios and walnuts, contain high amounts of unsaturated fat -- or âgoodâ fats, which increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) -- or âbadâ cholesterol -- levels. Omega-3 fatty acids are good fats found in walnuts, fatty fish and other foods.