Lyme Disease Blood Test

Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) Antibodies (ELISA) Blood Test

The Lyme Disease Blood Test is a crucial diagnostic tool that looks for antibodies in the blood produced in response to the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease. This test is particularly important due to the serious health implications of untreated Lyme disease.

What does the test look for?

The test primarily looks for antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi. The presence of these antibodies indicates that the body has been exposed to the bacteria, although it does not confirm active infection. The test usually involves two steps: an initial ELISA test, followed by a confirmatory Western blot test if the ELISA result is positive.

How can this test help you?

The Lyme Disease Blood Test can provide valuable information about potential exposure to Borrelia burgdorferi. If positive, it can guide healthcare providers in initiating appropriate treatment to prevent the progression of Lyme disease, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

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Conditions & Symptoms

Lyme disease is often suspected in individuals who have been bitten by a tick and present with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, a characteristic skin rash known as erythema migrans may also be present.

What to expect on the day of your test

On the day of your test, a blood sample will be taken. There are no special preparations required for this test. You may feel a slight prick or sting when the needle is inserted.

Test Analysis

The blood sample is analysed in a laboratory, where specialists look for Lyme disease antibodies using the ELISA test. If the ELISA test is positive, it is followed up with a Western blot test to confirm the diagnosis.

Additional Resources

For further information or support related to the test, you can visit the following websites:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Lyme Disease
- National Health Service: Lyme Disease

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diagnosis and testing of Lyme disease. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/diagnosistesting/index.html
2. Mount Sinai. Lyme disease blood test. Available at: https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/tests/lyme-disease-blood-test
3. MedlinePlus. Lyme Disease Tests. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/lyme-disease-tests/
4. UCSF Health. Lyme Disease Antibody. Available at: https://www.ucsfhealth.org/medical-tests/lyme-disease-blood-test
5. WebMD. How Do I Know If I Have Lyme Disease? Available at: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/do-i-have-lyme-disease

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diagnosis and testing of Lyme disease. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/diagnosistesting/index.html
• Mount Sinai. Lyme disease blood test. Available at: https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/tests/lyme-disease-blood-test
• MedlinePlus. Lyme Disease Tests. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/lyme-disease-tests/
• UCSF Health. Lyme Disease Antibody. Available at: https://www.ucsfhealth.org/medical-tests/lyme-disease-blood-test
• WebMD. How Do I Know If I Have Lyme Disease? Available at: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/do-i-have-lyme-disease