Anti-Borrelia burgdorferi IgG Antibody (Serum)

What Does This Test Measure?

The test looks for IgG antibodies specific to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, a bacterium transmitted by ticks. These antibodies develop after exposure and can persist for months or years, even after symptoms have resolved. This test is used to confirm a diagnosis of Lyme disease when early symptoms (like fever, rash, or joint pain) are present or when other tests are inconclusive.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of Lyme disease, such as a bullseye rash (erythema migrans), flu-like illness, or persistent joint/muscle pain. It’s also used in cases where early treatment wasn’t effective or if symptoms recur. This test helps distinguish Lyme disease from other conditions with similar symptoms.

What to Expect Before or After the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm. Results may take a few days to a week, depending on lab processing. If you’re diagnosed with Lyme disease, follow-up testing may include checking for other antibodies or monitoring treatment progress.

What Are Possible Results?

A positive result means your blood contains detectable IgG antibodies to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, suggesting past or current infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, but Lyme disease cannot be definitively ruled out without other tests or symptoms. False negatives can occur early in infection or with early treatment.