Bburgdorigaserqlia

What is this test?

The Borrelia burgdorferi IgA Antibody test is a blood test that looks for IgA antibodies in your blood. IgA antibodies are proteins your immune system makes to fight against Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria transmitted through tick bites that causes Lyme disease. This test uses immunoassay technology to detect whether these specific antibodies are present in your serum sample.

Why is this test performed?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of Lyme disease or if you know or suspect you have been bitten by a tick. Common symptoms of Lyme disease include a bull's-eye rash (erythema migrans), fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. Early detection of Lyme disease is important because treatment with antibiotics is most effective when started early.

How is the test done?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is collected in a tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory uses special tests (immunoassays) to detect whether IgA antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi are present in your blood. You do not need to fast or prepare in any special way for this test.

What do the results mean?

Results are typically reported as either 'Positive' (antibodies detected) or 'Negative' (no antibodies detected). A positive or reactive result suggests that your immune system has produced IgA antibodies in response to a current or recent Lyme disease infection. However, it can take 2-4 weeks after infection for antibodies to become detectable, so testing too early may give a false negative. A negative result does not completely rule out Lyme disease, especially if you have symptoms.