Bburgdorigmsnvql
This test detects IgM antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi in joint fluid to help diagnose Lyme disease affecting the joints.
{"Detects early immune response to Lyme disease bacteria in joint fluid","Used to confirm Lyme arthritis when joint swelling occurs","A positive result indicates current or recent infection"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22136-6
- Short code
- BBURIGMSYN
- Synonyms
- B burgdor IgM Snv Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof, screw-cap container without anticoagulants; transport tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) with confirmatory Western Blot
- CPT
- 86617
- SNOMED
- 395130002
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of synovial fluid
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days; Room temperature: not recommended for prolonged storage
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test looks for IgM antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease, in the fluid from your joint (synovial fluid). IgM antibodies are the first type of antibodies your immune system produces when fighting a new infection. This test helps doctors determine if your joint problem is related to Lyme disease.
Why is this test performed?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of Lyme disease affecting your joints, such as swelling, pain, or stiffness—typically in the knee, though other joints may be affected. This usually occurs weeks to months after the initial tick bite. The test helps confirm whether Lyme disease is the cause of your joint symptoms.
What do the results mean?
A positive (reactive) result means IgM antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi were detected in your joint fluid, suggesting a current or recent infection with the Lyme disease bacteria. A negative result means no antibodies were detected, but this does not completely rule out Lyme disease—early infection or later stages may not show detectable antibodies in joint fluid. Your doctor will interpret results along with your symptoms, exposure history, and other test results.
Reference range
NegativeN/A
No fasting required. Inform physician of any antibiotic use prior to arthrocentesis. Joint aspiration should be performed under sterile conditions by a qualified healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the test painful?
How is the sample collected?
Do I need to fast before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens if my 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