Lyme Lab Tests
Enzyme-linked immunoassay ELISA
- Ig M one to six weeks
- Ig G at least six weeks, can persist for years
Confirm with Western blot immunoassay
http://www.pdr.net/pcmag/static.htm?path=docs/061599/toc.html
Notes:
)The presence of erythema migrans is the main clinical criterion for early diagnosis of Lyme disease.
)Two-step serologic testing is recommended to confirm a diagnosis of Lyme disease. The tests measure antibody response to B. burgdorferi.
)Enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies appear within one to six weeks after the onset of the disease and are a marker of recent infection. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies usually develop at least six weeks after the onset of Lyme disease, persist for years and are an indicator of remote infection.
)A positive ELISA test should be confirmed by a Western blot immunoassay for specific molecular weight antibodies in the serum that are consistent with known B. burgdorferi antigens.
)In patients with symptoms of Bell's palsy, it is recommended that cerebrospinal fluid be drawn and analyzed for evidence of intrathecal synthesis of IgG. Patients with a positive result should receive intravenous antibiotic therapy.