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Bburgdorigmsnvqlib

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects IgM antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease bacteria) in joint fluid to help diagnose Lyme arthritis.

Quick summary

{"Detects early immune response to Lyme disease bacteria in joint fluid","Used to diagnose Lyme arthritis when joint swelling occurs","A positive IgM suggests recent or active infection","Sample is collected from the affected joint via needle aspiration","Results should be interpreted with clinical symptoms and other test results"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13207-6
Short code
BBIGMSYN
Synonyms
B burgdor IgM Snv Ql IB
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile screw-capped container; sterile cryovial preferred for transport to specialized reference laboratory
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Immunoblot (Western Blot)
CPT
86617
SNOMED
395196002
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of synovial fluid
Stability
Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 48 hours; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Ship frozen on dry ice if transport time exceeds 48 hours.
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 your synovial (joint) fluid. IgM antibodies are the first type of antibodies your body produces when fighting a new infection. The immunoblot (also called Western blot) method is used to detect these specific antibodies.

Why might I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have joint swelling, pain, or stiffness—especially in the knee—and you have symptoms or history suggesting Lyme disease exposure. Common early signs of Lyme disease include a bull's-eye rash, fever, headache, and fatigue. This test helps determine if Lyme disease is affecting your joints.

How is the sample collected?

A healthcare provider will use a needle to withdraw fluid from your swollen joint (this procedure is called arthrocentesis). The area will be cleaned and numbed before the needle is inserted. You may feel some pressure or discomfort during the procedure.

What do the results mean?

A positive IgM result suggests your body is currently fighting a recent Lyme disease infection. A negative result does not completely rule out Lyme disease—antibodies may not yet be detectable in early stages, or the infection may be caused by a differentBorrelia strain. Your doctor will interpret results alongside your symptoms, exposure history, and other test results.

Reference range

Negative: No detectable IgM antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi. Positive: IgM antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi detected, suggestive of recent or active Lyme disease infection. Equivocal results should be confirmed with repeat testing or alternative methodology.N/A

Specimen: fluid

No fasting required. Patients undergoing arthrocentesis should inform the physician of any anticoagulant therapy, as it may affect the procedure. Avoid skin infection at the arthrocentesis site prior to the procedure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is this test painful?
The joint aspiration may cause brief discomfort, but the area is typically numbed with local anesthetic. You may feel some soreness afterward for a day or two.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, as the immunoblot test requires specialized laboratory processing.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally before the procedure.
What happens if my test is positive?
A positive result indicates evidence of Lyme disease infection affecting your joint. Your doctor will likely prescribe a course of oral or intravenous antibiotics. Most patients respond well to treatment and recover fully.
Can this test tell me how long I've had Lyme disease?
Not precisely. IgM antibodies typically appear within 2-4 weeks of infection. A positive IgM suggests recent or current infection, but the exact timing cannot be determined from this test alone.
  1. 1
    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Lyme DiseaseSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Lyme DiseaseSource
  3. 3
    Arthritis Foundation - Lyme Disease and ArthritisSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy