Borrelia Burgdorferi IgG

What is the Lyme disease IgG test and why is it important?

 This test detects IgG antibodies specific to Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease, which is transmitted through tick bites. IgG antibodies typically appear weeks after infection and remain present for months or even years. The test is important for diagnosing late-stage or chronic Lyme disease in individuals presenting with symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, neurological issues, or cardiac symptoms after possible exposure to ticks.


Who should get tested for Lyme disease IgG antibodies?

 The test is typically recommended for individuals who have been in areas endemic to Lyme disease and show signs such as erythema migrans (a bull's-eye rash), arthritis, or neurological symptoms weeks or months after suspected exposure. It's particularly useful when symptoms persist beyond the early stage, or when a prior infection is suspected but not confirmed.


How is the test performed?

 A blood sample is collected via a standard venipuncture. The sample is tested using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or immunoblot (Western blot) to detect IgG antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi. This test is often paired with IgM testing, especially if symptoms are recent.


What do the test results mean?

 A positive result indicates exposure to the bacteria and possible ongoing or past infection. However, false positives can occur, so positive results are often followed by a confirmatory Western blot. A negative result does not entirely rule out infection, especially if testing is done too early. Therefore, clinical history and timing of symptoms are critical when interpreting results.


Can prior infections or vaccinations affect results?

 Yes, past infections can result in lingering IgG antibodies, even after successful treatment, making it difficult to determine if the infection is current. As of now, no vaccine for Lyme disease is available for humans, so vaccination doesn't affect the result.