What testing options are available for Lyme disease?

Laboratory Tests for Lyme Disease

Laboratory tests for Lyme disease are divided into two categories: serologic tests and non-serologic tests. Serologic tests detect the presence of antibodies against the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, while non-serologic tests detect the presence of the bacteria itself. The most commonly used serologic test is the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which detects IgM and IgG antibodies against the bacteria. A Western blot test is often used as a confirmatory test, as it detects specific antibodies against various Borrelia burgdorferi proteins.

Interpreting Test Results

Test results for Lyme disease can be positive, negative, or indeterminate. A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies or antigens, suggesting a current or past infection. A negative result does not necessarily rule out Lyme disease, as the test may not detect the presence of antibodies or antigens in the early stages of infection. An indeterminate result may indicate a mixed response or the presence of antibodies against other Borrelia species. Healthcare providers typically consider the results in conjunction with clinical symptoms and medical history to determine the likelihood of Lyme disease.

PCR Testing for Lyme Disease

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is a non-serologic test that detects the presence of Borrelia burgdorferi DNA in bodily fluids, such as blood or cerebrospinal fluid. PCR testing is particularly useful in diagnosing Lyme disease in the early stages of infection, when antibodies may not have yet developed. However, PCR testing is not always reliable, as the sensitivity of the test can vary depending on the specific PCR technique and the quality of the DNA sample.