Borrelia burgdorferi IgG Antibody (Serum/Plasma) by Immunoassay
This test detects antibodies to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease, using blood serum or plasma.
["It helps diagnose Lyme disease by identifying your immune system’s response to the infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31316-3
- Short code
- COX2IGA
- Synonyms
- C burnet Ph2 IgA Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) - red top or gold top; alternatively plain red top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 16
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); Immunofluorescence assay (IFA)
- CPT
- 86638
- SNOMED
- 122875003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Serum stable at room temperature for 8 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C) for 7 days; frozen (-20°C or below) for up to 30 days. 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 measures the presence of IgG antibodies against *Borrelia burgdorferi*, a bacterium transmitted through tick bites. These antibodies develop after your body has been exposed to the bacteria, typically weeks to months after infection. This test is not used to diagnose Lyme disease immediately after a bite but rather to confirm past or ongoing infection in people with symptoms or a history of exposure.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is tested using an immunoassay method, which detects specific antibodies in your serum or plasma that target *Borrelia burgdorferi*. This helps healthcare providers determine if you have developed an immune response to the bacteria.
When You Might Need This Test
You may need this test if you have symptoms of Lyme disease (such as fever, rash, joint pain, or neurological issues), a history of tick exposure, or if you live in or have traveled to an area where Lyme disease is common. It is often used alongside other tests, like the *Borrelia burgdorferi* IgM test, to guide diagnosis and treatment.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, and you can eat and drink normally before the procedure. If you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or take blood-thinning medications, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
Reference range
Negative: <1:16; Equivocal: 1:16-1:32; Positive: >1:32 (titers vary by laboratory and assay method). Reference ranges should be interpreted in conjunction with phase 1 IgG and IgM antibody results to assess stage of Coxiella burnetii infection.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any recent antibiotic use, immunosuppressive therapy, or prior vaccination that may affect antibody response.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate that your immune system has recognized and responded to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, suggesting a past or current Lyme disease infection. However, false positives can occur, especially in people with autoimmune conditions or those who have been previously exposed. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing Lyme disease effectively.
Short name
Borrelia IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Can I have this test if I have recently been bitten by a tick?
What if my test results are positive but I don’t have any symptoms?
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