Lyme Disease
Also known as: Lyme antibodies detection; Lyme antibodies IgM/IgG by Western blot; Lyme disease by PCR
Formal name: Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies, IgM/IgG; Borrelia burgdorferi DNA detection by PCR
Related tests: CSF analysis, Synovial fluid analysis
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
To see if you have been exposed to the bacterium that causes Lyme disease
When to Get Tested?
When you show symptoms of Lyme disease, especially when you live in or have recently visited the northeastern or western United States and suspect that you have been bitten by a tick
Sample Required?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm; sometimes a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample or sample of joint fluid (synovial fluid)
Test Preparation Needed?
None
