AsseyMethod: CLIA
Abbrevation: Borrelia Burgdorferi Ab - IgG)
Sector: Hormone
SampleType: S,PE,PC
S.Vol: 0.5
Transport: at 2-8˚c, -20˚c
Storage: 1 week at 2-8˚c for longer time at -20˚
Test Name: Borrelia Burgdorferi Ab - IgG
Normal Range: Negative:<5 Borderline:5-5.5 Positive:>5.5
To see if you have been exposed to the bacterium that causes Lyme disease
If you show symptoms of Lyme disease, especially if they appear some weeks after a painless bite from a small tick or you have recently been in woodland or long grass
A blood sample taken from a vein in the arm
None
Your blood is being tested for antibodies to the Lyme disease bacterium. Their presence means you have been infected with the Lyme disease spiral bacterium (spirochaete) known as Borrelia burgdorferi by a bite from an infected tick.
People bitten by an infected tick which is not removed within a day or so may develop Lyme disease. An expanding rash called erythema migrans appears at the site of the bite within 3 to 30 days in a large proportion of those infected. The rash spreads and often develops a “bulls-eye” appearance. Many also develop flu-like symptoms with aching joints and muscles. The disease can later affect the nervous system, joints and other body systems.
It takes the body two to three weeks to produce detectable levels of B. burgdorferi antibodies. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies are produced first, increase to maximum concentrations at about six weeks and then begin to decline. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies are detectable several weeks after exposure, increase to maximum levels at about four to six months, and may remain at high levels for many years.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is taken by needle from a vein in the arm. Sometimes, if indicated by your symptoms, a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample or a sample of joint fluid (synovial fluid) is taken. Very occasionally a skin biopsy is taken from a rash.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
No test preparation is needed.