Lyme Disease Antibody with Reflex to Immunoassay (IgG, IgM)
Quest Diagnostics
Sample type: Serum
Requires fasting: No
Phlebotomy required
Details
Lyme Disease Antibody with Reflex to Immunoassay (IgG, IgM) - This test is for the qualitative detection of antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease, using the modified two-tier testing (MTTT) algorithm.
Reflex testing uses predefined clinical logic to automatically order one or more follow-up tests based on the initial test results. Reflex tests are performed automatically without the intervention of the ordering practitioner. They are conducted using the same sample your Patient already provided. If reflex tests are required, there will be additional charges.
Initial test
- Borrelia burgdorferi IgG+IgM
Possible reflex biomarkers
- Lyme Ab (IgG)
- Lyme Ab (IgM)
Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected
Diagnostic testing for Lyme disease relies on a two-step algorithm to increase sensitivity and specificity. Testing is performed in patients presenting with signs and symptoms consistent with Lyme disease and with potential tick exposure in endemic regions. Most infections are transmitted by blacklegged ticks in the upper midwestern, northeastern, and mid-Atlantic states.
Negative results can occur in patients with recent infection (≤14 days). In persons with recent or past infection, both IgG and IgM can be detectable months to years after the infection has resolved. Therefore, it is recommended to interpret results in the context of the clinical picture, history, including exposure risk, and symptom onset.
References:
1. Mead, P. et al. Updated CDC Recommendation for Serologic Diagnosis of Lyme Disease. Wkly Rep. 2019 Aug 16;68(32):703. doi: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6832a4.
2. Suggested Reporting Language, Interpretation and Guidance For Lyme Disease Serologic Test Results. Association of Public Health Laboratories. April 2024.
3. Sfeir MM, Meece JK, Theel ES, et al. Multicenter clinical evaluation of modified two-tiered testing algorithms for Lyme disease using zeus scientific commercial assays. J Clin Microbiol 2022; 60:e0252821.
4. Tickborne Diseases of the United States. A Reference Manual for Healthcare Providers, Sixth Edition, 2022. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
2–5 business days
Blood Draw Options with Fullscript
Fullscript offers several convenient phlebotomy options to complete your lab testing:
Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)
- Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
- Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
- Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
- Collection Instructions:
- Bring a valid ID.
- Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.
- Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
- More Info: Quest Diagnostics blood draw guide
Getlabs Mobile Phlebotomy
- Location: Sample collection at your home or office.
- Cost: $85 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
- Availability: Available in most locations – enter your ZIP code during checkout to confirm.
- Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here through your Fullscript account.
- Collection Instructions:
- Have your digital or printed requisition form and valid ID ready.
- Your phlebotomist will contact you by phone to coordinate arrival.
- More Info: Getlabs blood draw guide
- Preferred Specimen(s): 1 mL serum
- Alternative: NA
- Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
- Collection Instructions: NA
- Transport Container: Transport tube
- Transport Temperature: Room Temperature
- Specimen Stability:
- Room temperature: 7 days
- Refrigerated: 14 days
- Frozen: 30 days
- Reject Criteria:
- Gross hemolysis • Grossly lipemic • Grossly icteric
State restrictions:
Patient can't order this test if they are located in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, New Jersey, New York, or Rhode Island
