Question 1

How long after a tick bite should I wait to get tested?

Accepted Answer

Timing matters. Antibodies may not be detectable in the first days or weeks after infection. For new suspected infection, about 3 weeks is often a minimum window for more reliable serologic detection, although clinicians may diagnose and treat based on classic symptoms such as an erythema migrans rash without waiting for antibody results.

Question 2

Can this test tell me if I have an active Lyme disease infection?

Accepted Answer

Serological tests cannot distinguish active from past infection as IgG antibodies may persist for years after exposure. A positive serological result does not confirm active disease, as anti-Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies may indicate prior infection unrelated to current symptoms. The test detects the immune response to the bacteria, but clinical correlation is needed to determine if infection is active.

Question 3

What if my initial screening test is positive?

Accepted Answer

A positive initial screening test must be followed up with a Western blot test, and only a positive Western blot test can confirm the diagnosis of Lyme disease. As recommended by the FDA, all samples with positive or equivocal results should be tested by Western Blot, and screening test results should not be interpreted as truly positive until verified by confirmatory testing.

Question 4

Can I test negative even if I have Lyme disease?

Accepted Answer

Yes, false-negative results are possible, especially in early infection. Sensitivity during early localized infection is low while the immune response is developing, but increases to 70% to 100% for patients with disseminated infection. Most patients have a positive result if tested 2 weeks after initial symptoms, however immediate antibiotic treatment can prevent seroconversion.

Question 5

Should I get tested if I don't remember being bitten by a tick?

Accepted Answer

Most Lyme disease is caused by bites from black-legged ticks which are about the size of a sesame seed, and baby ticks are about the size of a poppy seed, so individuals may not know they have been bitten. Testing may be appropriate if individuals have symptoms that could be Lyme disease and were exposed or possibly exposed to infected ticks, especially in endemic areas.

Question 6

Will this test detect other tick-borne diseases?

Accepted Answer

This specific test only detects antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Coinfection with multiple tick-borne diseases is common, with studies showing over 50% of patients with post-treatment Lyme disease had coinfections. If other tick-borne diseases are suspected, additional specific testing for conditions like ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, or babesiosis may be recommended.

Lyme Disease Antibody Test