Is there a test for Lyme disease?

Yes, there are several tests available for Lyme disease. The type of test and the timing of the test can depend on the stage of the disease and the individual patient's condition.

1. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test: This is a blood test that detects antibodies against B. burgdorferi. It is typically the first test done for suspected Lyme disease. However, a positive ELISA test result must be confirmed by a Western blot test.
2. Western blot test: This is also a blood test that detects antibodies against B. burgdorferi. It is used to confirm a positive ELISA test result.
3. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test: This test is used to detect the genetic material of B. burgdorferi in a patient's blood, urine, or spinal fluid. It can be used to diagnose Lyme disease early in the course of the infection.
4. Culture test: This test is used to grow the Lyme disease bacteria in a laboratory. However, this test is not widely available, and it takes a long time to get the results.

It's important to note that testing for Lyme disease can be complex, and the results can be ambiguous. False-negative results can occur, particularly in the early stage of the disease, or if the individual was previously treated with antibiotics. Therefore, doctors may rely on a patient's symptoms and medical history to make a diagnosis.

Begin Your Journey to Wellness with Patients Medical

Our job at Patients Medical is to connect the dots between a patient's medical history, symptoms, and their underlying causes. Patients Medical is a superb place for people to secure integrative and holistic health care from providers who give personalized care, partner with the patient to focus on the root cause of their illness, support their recovery, and help them maintain good health.

For those that can make the journey, we are happy to welcome new patients to our medical center in New York City. Fill out the form at the top of this page, or call us at 1-212-794-8800. We are here to listen and to help.

We are located at: Patients Medical PC, 1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128.