Our Lyme Disease Test follows the CDC recommended 2-step testing process for Lyme disease. Both steps use the same blood sample for testing. Your sample measures the levels of IgM and IgG antibodies produced in the blood in response to Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria that cause Lyme disease. If your initial test results are positive, a second test is done to confirm results.
What is tested?
Our Lyme Disease Test measures the level of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG), antibodies produced in the blood in response to Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria that cause Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread through the bite of blacklegged ticks, which are commonly called deer ticks. Ticks usually acquire Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria by biting infected animals, such as deer and small rodents. For Lyme disease to be transmitted, an infected tick needs to be attached to the host for 36 to 48 hours.
The immune system's natural defense against Borrelia bacteria is to produce specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) to help fight off the infection. Antibodies are proteins created by the immune system that target specific foreign threats, such as bacteria and viruses, including Borrelia bacteria spread by a tick bite.
Because it takes time for antibodies to develop in response to Borrelia burgdorferi infection, testing at the right time is essential. IgM antibody levels usually reach their highest levels in a few weeks after infection, whereas IgG antibodies develop more slowly, appearing from about 4 to 6 weeks following infection. Testing should be considered for individuals with possible exposure to infected blacklegged ticks based on the presence of recognizable signs and symptoms of infection.
Untreated Lyme disease can produce a wide range of symptoms depending on the stage of infection. Seek medical attention if you are having heart or neurologic symptoms, especially if you have had a tick bite, live in an area known for Lyme disease, or have recently traveled to an area where Lyme disease is common.
Signs & Symptoms
A common, early sign of Lyme disease is a bullseye rash (known as erythema migrans) greater than the size of a quarter. It appears in 70% of people infected with Lyme disease. If left untreated, Lyme disease can produce a wide variety of signs and symptoms, depending on the stage of infection.
Early signs and symptoms (3 to 30 days after a tick bite) may include:
Later signs and symptoms (days to months after tick bite) may include:
If you are experiencing moderate or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.
Eligibility
The Lyme Disease Test is for all children 12 months of age or older and adults who may have been exposed. You must be 18 years old or older to purchase.
Preparing For Your Test
You do not need to do anything special to prepare for the sample collection. Fasting is not required for this test.
Confirming Test
If initial Lyme disease results are abnormal, confirmation testing is performed on the sample you have already provided, as required by standard diagnostic guidelines.
After The Test
When your results are ready, we will send them to you in a clear, easy-to-read report. You will have the option to speak with an independent physician to discuss your results. If your results differ from the expected ranges, you may receive an alert call to inform you.
