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Serum Anti-Lyme Antibody, Immunoassay (Qualitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test detects antibodies to the bacteria *Borrelia burgdorferi*, which causes Lyme disease. Antibodies may appear after infection or vaccination.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose Lyme disease by checking for immune system responses to infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10670-8
Short code
G lamblia Stl Ql Cult
Synonyms
G lamblia Stl Ql Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test looks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease. Antibodies are proteins your body makes to fight infections. If you have been exposed to the bacteria, these antibodies may be present in your blood.

How the Test Works

The test uses an immunoassay method to detect specific antibodies in your serum. This involves mixing your blood sample with antigens (parts of the bacteria) and measuring whether your immune system reacts to them.

Possible Causes of Positive Results

A positive result suggests exposure to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, but it does not always mean you have active Lyme disease. Other conditions or past infections may also produce similar antibody responses.

Possible Causes of Negative Results

A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this test. However, Lyme disease can sometimes be difficult to diagnose early, especially if symptoms are mild or if testing was done too soon after exposure.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: stool

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lyme disease antibody screen

Frequently asked questions

Why might I need this test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of Lyme disease (e.g., fever, rash, joint pain) or if you’ve been exposed to ticks in an area where Lyme disease is common.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means antibodies to *Borrelia burgdorferi* were detected, suggesting past exposure. It does not confirm Lyme disease alone—further testing may be needed to assess active infection.
Can I get false positives or negatives?
Yes, both false positives and false negatives can occur. False positives may happen with other infections or in rare cases of cross-reactions. False negatives are more likely if testing is done too early after exposure.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy