**Core Concept**
The VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) test is a non-treponemal serological test used for the screening and diagnosis of syphilis. It detects the presence of antibodies against the lipoidal material released from damaged host cells, as well as the lipoidal conjugate of the treponeme. A false-positive VDRL test occurs when the test result is positive in the absence of syphilis.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
False-positive VDRL test results can occur due to various reasons such as recent vaccination, pregnancy, certain chronic diseases like lupus, or the presence of other infections like HIV, malaria, or leptospirosis. These conditions can cause an increase in the levels of immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM) in the serum, leading to a false-positive result. The VDRL test is also sensitive to the presence of rheumatoid factor, which can cause a false-positive result in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Recent streptococcal infection is not typically associated with a false-positive VDRL test, although it may cause a false-positive rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test.

**Option B:** Hepatitis is not typically associated with a false-positive VDRL test, although it may cause an increase in liver enzymes.

**Option C:** Leptospirosis is associated with a false-positive VDRL test due to the presence of immunoglobulins in the serum.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In cases of a false-positive VDRL test, it is essential to confirm the diagnosis using a treponemal test such as the TPHA (Treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay) or FTA-ABS (Fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test) to rule out syphilis.

**Correct Answer:** C. Leptospirosis