IgG anti-Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease antibody) - Immunoassay
This test measures the presence of antibodies to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease. It helps determine if your body has ever been exposed to this infection.
["This test checks for past or possible Lyme disease exposure through antibody detection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 63455-0
- Short code
- COXPH1M
- Synonyms
- C burnet Ph1 IgM Ser Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 16
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
- CPT
- 86638
- SNOMED
- 122620008
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Serum stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below. 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 detects IgG antibodies specific to *Borrelia burgdorferi*. These antibodies develop in response to infection and can remain in your blood for months or years after exposure. This test is typically used to screen for or confirm past Lyme disease exposure, not to diagnose an active infection.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is tested using an immunoassay method, which identifies IgG antibodies against the Lyme disease bacterium. This method is highly sensitive and detects even small amounts of these antibodies.
Why It Might Be Ordered
A healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms suggestive of Lyme disease (such as fever, rash, joint pain, or neurological issues) or if you’ve lived in or traveled to areas where Lyme disease is common. It can also be used as part of a broader evaluation for chronic symptoms that may be linked to past infection.
What to Expect
You’ll typically provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The test is usually done in a lab and results are available within a few days. If positive, further testing (such as a different antibody test or culture) may be needed to confirm or rule out Lyme disease.
Reference range
Negative: <1:16; Equivocal: 1:16-1:32; Positive: ≥1:64. Phase 1 IgM antibodies indicate chronic Q fever infection.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen may be collected at any time of day.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
IgG Lyme antibody
Frequently asked questions
Can this test diagnose Lyme disease now?
What does a positive result mean?
How long do these antibodies stay in my blood?
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