Bburgdor23kdigmsnvqlib
This test checks for IgM antibodies against the 23kD protein of Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease bacteria) in joint fluid using immunoblot technique.
{"This test detects early immune response to Lyme disease bacteria in joint fluid","A positive result suggests Lyme disease may be affecting the joint","The test uses immunoblot (Western blot) to identify specific antibodies","It helps diagnose Lyme arthritis when joint symptoms are present","Results should be interpreted with clinical symptoms and other test findings"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30021-0
- Short code
- BORR23IGMSF
- Synonyms
- B burgdor23kD IgM Snv Ql IB
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container without additives (preferably cryogenic vial) or synovial fluid collection tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunoblot (Western Blot)
- CPT
- 86617
- SNOMED
- 398391005
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of synovial fluid (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test looks for IgM (immunoglobulin M) antibodies specifically targeting the 23kD protein of Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. The test is performed on synovial fluid, which is the fluid that lubricates your joints. Unlike standard blood tests, this sample is taken directly from an affected joint through a procedure called joint aspiration or arthrocentesis.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare provider will insert a thin needle into your joint (commonly knee) to withdraw a small amount of synovial fluid. This fluid is then sent to a laboratory where technicians use an immunoblot (Western blot) technique to detect whether IgM antibodies against the 23kD protein of Lyme disease bacteria are present. The 23kD antigen is one of the specific markers used to confirm Lyme disease infection.
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have joint pain, swelling, or stiffness (particularly in the knee) and there is suspicion of Lyme arthritis. This often occurs weeks to months after a tick bite, especially if you did not see or recall a tick bite or the characteristic bull's-eye rash. This test helps determine if Lyme disease bacteria have spread to your joints.
Reference range
Negative (Reactive bands not detected). Positive: Presence of reactive band at 23 kDa. Interpretation follows CDC criteria: IgM positive requires bands at 23 kDa and 39 kDa (or 41 kDa).N/A
No special patient preparation required. Synovial fluid collection requires arthrocentesis performed by a qualified healthcare provider under sterile conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is this test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean?
What does a negative result mean?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 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