Bburgdoriggsnvql
This test checks for IgG antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease bacteria) in the fluid around your joint.
{"Detects immune response to Lyme disease bacteria in joint fluid","Helps diagnose Lyme arthritis when joint swelling occurs","A positive result suggests the bacteria may have spread to the joint"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22129-1
- Short code
- BBIGGSYN
- Synonyms
- B burgdor IgG Snv Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile, screw-cap, leak-proof container without preservatives; sterile cryovial preferred for long-term storage
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 2–99 years
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) followed by Western Blot confirmation
- CPT
- 86617
- SNOMED
- 122575007
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of synovial fluid
- 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
- 300
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Borrelia burgdorferi IgG Antibody test looks for specific immune proteins (called IgG antibodies) in the fluid from your joint (synovial fluid). These antibodies are produced by your body's immune system if it has been exposed to the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. The test uses a method called immunoassay to detect whether these antibodies are present.
Why is this test performed?
This test is ordered when you have joint pain, swelling, or inflammation, especially if you have a history of tick bites or live in an area where Lyme disease is common. It helps doctors determine if Lyme disease bacteria have spread to your joint, causing what is known as Lyme arthritis.
How is the sample collected?
A healthcare provider will insert a thin needle into your joint (commonly the knee) to withdraw a small amount of synovial fluid. This procedure is called joint aspiration or arthrocentesis. The fluid is then sent to a laboratory for testing.
Reference range
Negative: No antibodies detected; Positive: IgG antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi detected, suggestive of past or current infection with Lyme disease. Equivocal results should be confirmed by Western blot testing.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Inform the ordering physician of any current antibiotic therapy, as this may affect antibody detection. Arthrocentesis should be performed under sterile conditions by a qualified healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
Is this test different from a blood Lyme disease test?
Does a positive result mean I definitely have Lyme arthritis?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens if the test is positive?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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