Bburgdor66kdiggsnvqlib
This test detects IgG antibodies against the 66kD protein of Borrelia burgdorferi (the bacteria that causes Lyme disease) in synovial fluid, primarily used to help diagnose Lyme arthritis.
{"This test looks for specific IgG antibodies in joint fluid to confirm Lyme disease affecting the joints","A positive result indicates the immune system has produced antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria","The test uses immunoblot (Western blot) technique to detect antibodies to a specific 66kD bacterial protein","Results should be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other laboratory tests","Sample is collected via joint aspiration (arthrocentesis)"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30016-0
- Short code
- BB66IGGSF
- Synonyms
- B burgdor66kD IgG Snv Ql IB
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container for synovial fluid collection
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunoblot (Western Blot)
- CPT
- 86617
- SNOMED
- 41758-7
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of synovial fluid
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 48–120 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Borrelia burgdorferi 66kD IgG Antibody test is a specialized laboratory test that detects IgG (immunoglobulin G) antibodies specifically targeting the 66kD protein of Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria in synovial (joint) fluid. This test uses immunoblotting (also called Western blot) technique, which is highly specific and can identify antibodies to individual bacterial proteins. The 66kD protein is one of the key antigens used in Lyme disease testing because antibodies against it typically develop during later stages of infection.
Why is this test performed?
This test is primarily ordered when a patient has symptoms of Lyme arthritis, such as joint swelling, pain, and stiffness (typically affecting large joints like the knee). It helps confirm whether joint symptoms are caused by Borrelia burgdorferi infection. The test is particularly useful when earlier-stage Lyme disease tests (like ELISA) are inconclusive or when the infection has spread to the joints. It may also be used to monitor treatment response in patients with confirmed Lyme arthritis.
How is the sample collected?
The sample is synovial fluid, which is collected through a procedure called arthrocentesis (joint aspiration). During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin needle into the affected joint to withdraw fluid. The area is first cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. The collected fluid is then sent to a laboratory for analysis using immunoblot technique to detect specific IgG antibodies against the 66kD protein of Borrelia burgdorferi.
Understanding your results
Results are typically reported as 'Positive', 'Negative', or 'Indeterminate' for the presence of IgG antibodies against the 66kD protein. A positive result suggests that antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi are present in the joint fluid, indicating a current or recent Lyme disease infection affecting the joint. A negative result does not completely rule out Lyme disease, as antibodies may not have developed yet in early infection, or the infection may be caused by a different Borrelia species. Your healthcare provider will interpret results in context of your symptoms, exposure history, and other test results.
Reference range
Negative: No IgG antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi 66kD antigen detected. Positive: IgG antibodies to 66kD antigen detected, suggesting prior exposure to Borrelia burgdorferi. Interpretation requires correlation with clinical findings and CDC-recommended two-tiered testing criteria for Lyme disease.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to antibiotic therapy initiation when possible to avoid false-negative results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is joint aspiration painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test be done on blood instead of joint fluid?
What happens if my test is positive?
Could I still have Lyme disease if my test is negative?
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