Anti-Borrelia burgdorferi IgG Immunoassay (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease. It helps determine if your immune system has ever been exposed to the infection.
["Checks for past Lyme disease exposure through antibody presence."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9706-3
- Short code
- COX1IGA
- Synonyms
- C burnet Ph1 IgA Titr Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top vacutainer tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 16
- Ref high
- 1
- Critical range
- — – 800 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
- CPT
- 86638
- SNOMED
- 122310008
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Stable at 2-8°C for 7 days; for extended storage, freeze at -20°C or below for up to 4 weeks. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for specific antibodies (IgG) produced by your immune system in response to *Borrelia burgdorferi*. These antibodies can appear months or years after infection, even if symptoms have already resolved. This test is not used to diagnose active Lyme disease but can help confirm past exposure.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The serum or plasma is then analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect IgG antibodies against *Borrelia burgdorferi*. This method is highly sensitive and specific for identifying past infections.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have a history of Lyme disease symptoms, live in an area with high Lyme risk, or have been exposed to ticks. It can also be used for screening or monitoring in certain clinical situations.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink, or take medications as usual. If you are on blood-thinning medications, inform your provider beforehand.
Reference range
Negative: <1:16; Indeterminate: 1:16-1:32; Positive: ≥1:64. Phase 1 IgA antibodies at titers ≥1:200 are considered diagnostic for chronic Q fever, particularly chronic endocarditis or vascular infection.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Sample should be collected before administration of antibiotics when possible to avoid false-negative results, though serology can remain positive for extended periods.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Anti-Borrelia IgG (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
Can this test detect active Lyme disease?
What does a positive result mean?
How soon after infection can antibodies appear?
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy