Bburgdor29kdabserqlib

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

This test detects antibodies against the 29kD protein of Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, using an immunoblot technique.

Quick summary

{"Checks for immune response to Lyme disease bacteria","Used to confirm Lyme disease infection","Performed on a blood sample","Results indicate if antibodies are present or absent"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC: 12878-5
Short code: BORR29
Synonyms: B burgdor29kD Ab Ser Ql IB
Category: chemistry
Sample: serum
Container: Red-top serum tube or serum separator tube (SST)
Units: N/A
Fasting: false
Population: adult
Sex: all
Age range: 18–65 years
Method: Immunoblot (Western blot) for detection of IgG or IgM antibodies to the 29 kDa (OspA) antigen of Borrelia burgdorferi
CPT: 86617
SNOMED: 416722003
Specimen volume: 1 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
Stability: Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max: 100
Lipemia max: 100
Icterus max: 50
TAT: 24–72 hours
Order: routine

What is this test?

The Borrelia burgdorferi 29kD Antibody test is a specialized blood test that looks for antibodies (proteins your body makes to fight infection) against a specific part (the 29kD protein) of the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. This test uses a method called immunoblot (also known as Western blot) to detect these antibodies.

Why is this test performed?

This test is typically ordered when a patient has symptoms or exposure history suggesting Lyme disease, especially after a positive or inconclusive screening test. It helps confirm whether the patient has been infected with Borrelia burgdorferi. The 29kD protein is one of several proteins used in Lyme disease testing to improve accuracy.

How is the test done?

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory where technicians look for antibodies against the 29kD protein of Borrelia burgdorferi using the immunoblot technique.

What do the results mean?

A 'Positive' result means antibodies against the 29kD protein were detected, suggesting a past or current infection with Lyme disease bacteria. A 'Negative' result means no antibodies were detected. However, it can take several weeks after infection for antibodies to develop, so a negative result does not completely rule out Lyme disease if symptoms are present.

Reference range

Negative. Positive result indicates the presence of IgG or IgM antibodies to the 29 kDa outer surface protein A (OspA) of Borrelia burgdorferi. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other Lyme disease serologic markers.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any recent antibiotic use, current illness, vaccination history, or travel to endemic areas (Northeast, Midwest, and Pacific Coast regions of the United States, as well as parts of Europe and Asia).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?

No, fasting is not required for this blood test. You can eat and drink normally before having your blood drawn.

How long does it take to get results?

Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results.

Can this test tell me if I have an active infection?

This test detects antibodies, which indicate your immune system has responded to the bacteria. It cannot distinguish between an active or past infection. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results along with your symptoms and exposure history.

What should I do if my test is positive?

If your test is positive, discuss the results with your healthcare provider. They will determine if treatment is needed based on your symptoms, physical findings, and test results. Lyme disease is typically treated with antibiotics.

Can the test be done if I was just bitten by a tick?

If you were recently bitten by a tick, this test may not be useful immediately. It can take several weeks for your body to produce detectable antibodies. If you develop symptoms like a rash or fever after a tick bite, contact your healthcare provider.

Sources

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy