Borrelia burgdorferi IgG antibody (serum/plasma) by immunoassay
This test detects antibodies to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease, using a blood sample.
["It helps identify past or current Lyme disease exposure by measuring immune system response."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110078-3
- Short code
- COXPH1
- Synonyms
- C burnet Ph1 Ab Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) or Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA)
- CPT
- 86638
- SNOMED
- 1221000175104
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum
- Stability
- Serum stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for Borrelia burgdorferi IgG antibodies, which your immune system produces in response to infection. These antibodies are present if your body has been exposed to the bacterium, whether from a tick bite or prior infection. The method used is an immunoassay, which detects specific proteins (antibodies) in your serum or plasma.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is tested to identify IgG antibodies against *Borrelia burgdorferi*. IgG is a type of antibody that typically develops several weeks to months after infection, making it useful for detecting past exposure. This test does not confirm active infection but can help guide further evaluation if symptoms or risk factors are present.
When You Might Need This Test
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of Lyme disease (e.g., rash, flu-like illness, joint pain) or if you’ve been bitten by a tick in an endemic area. It may also be used for screening or monitoring in certain clinical settings.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. Bring your medical records or a list of medications to your appointment. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing if instructed, as it may affect blood chemistry.
Reference range
Negative: <1:16; Equivocal: 1:16–1:64; Positive: ≥1:64. Phase 1 IgG titers ≥1:200 indicate chronic Q fever infection.N/A
No fasting required. Patient should be informed that this test detects antibodies to Coxiella burnetii phase I antigen, associated with chronic Q fever infection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results suggest past exposure to *Borrelia burgdorferi* but do not confirm active infection. False positives can occur due to cross-reactions with other bacteria or prior vaccination. If symptoms persist or worsen, further testing (e.g., PCR or antibody titers) may be needed to assess active infection.
Short name
Borrelia IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
Why was I asked to take this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get Lyme disease if my test is negative?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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