Antibody to Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme Disease) by Immunoassay (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for antibodies to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease, which is spread through tick bites. It helps determine if you may have been exposed to the infection.
["This test helps diagnose Lyme disease by detecting immune system responses to the Lyme-causing bacteria."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22148-1
- Short code
- BRUCAB
- Synonyms
- B abortus Ab Smn Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, wide-mouth, screw-capped plastic container for semen collection; sterile collection vial
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- male
- Age range
- 18–99 years
- Method
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) or Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) for detection of Brucella abortus antibodies
- CPT
- 86622
- SNOMED
- 3952004
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of ejaculated semen following standard collection protocols
- Stability
- Maintain at 2-8°C if processed within 24 hours; freeze at -20°C or below for prolonged storage. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, joint pain, or a rash (like a bullseye rash) that could be linked to Lyme disease. It’s also used after a tick bite, especially in areas where Lyme is common. Some people get tested as part of routine screening if they live in or travel to regions with higher Lyme risk.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test uses serum or plasma, the liquid part of your blood without or with clotting factors removed, respectively.
How the Test Works
The test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Borrelia burgdorferi*. These antibodies are created when your body fights the infection. The test uses an immunoassay method to measure their presence and level.
Possible Results and Interpretation
A positive result suggests you may have been exposed to Lyme bacteria, but it doesn’t always mean you have active infection. False positives can occur, especially in early stages or if you’ve been previously exposed. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time.
Reference range
Negative: No detectable Brucella abortus antibodies. Positive: Antibodies detected at significant titers suggesting exposure or active infection.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Patient should abstain from sexual activity for 2-5 days prior to specimen collection. Inform the laboratory of any recent antibiotic use.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Lyme Disease Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get Lyme disease even if my antibody test is negative?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy