Lyme Disease Ab with Reflex to Blot (IgG, IgM)
Also known as: Borrelia burgdorferi
Use
This test follows the CDC‑recommended standard two‑tier testing algorithm (STTT) for Lyme disease. It begins with an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or immunofluorescence assay (IFA) to screen for antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi; if the result is positive or equivocal, a confirmatory immunoblot (Western blot) for both IgG and IgM antibodies is performed.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Antibodies may not become detectable until weeks after infection; early infections may yield false‑negative results. Positive IgM results beyond 30 days of symptom onset may be less reliable. Persistent antibodies may remain post‑infection and cannot distinguish active from prior infection. Reflex immunoblot is required for confirmation; screening alone is insufficient for diagnosis.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunoassay)
Biomarkers
Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies (IgG, IgM)
Protein
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1–2 mL blood yielding 1 mL serum
Minimum Volume
0.7 mL serum
Container
Red top (no additive) or SST & transport tube
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis; grossly lipemic; grossly icteric
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 Days |
| Refrigerated | 14 Days |
| Frozen | 30 Days |
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