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Borrelia burgdorferi IgG Antibody, Serum (Qualitative Immunoassay)

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

This test checks for antibodies to *Borrelia burgdorferi*, the bacterium linked to Lyme disease, using a blood sample from your serum.

Quick summary

["Detects past or current Lyme disease exposure through antibody presence."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87547-6
Short code
Tick IgG + B burgdor Ab Pnl Ser
Synonyms
Tick IgG + B burgdor Ab Pnl Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
22
Ref high
198
Critical range
— – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82553
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

Borrelia burgdorferi IgG antibodies are proteins your immune system produces in response to infection. If you’ve been exposed to the bacterium, these antibodies may be present in your blood. This test uses an immunoassay to identify them qualitatively (yes/no result).

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, joint pain, or a rash (e.g., bull’s-eye rash) that could suggest Lyme disease, especially after a tick bite or exposure to ticks in endemic areas.

When Results May Be Positive

Positive results can occur weeks to months after infection, as your body takes time to produce detectable antibodies. However, false positives are rare but possible, especially if you have other infections or autoimmune conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample drawn from your arm, and the serum portion (liquid part) will be tested for antibodies.

Reference range

Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Borrelia IgG Antibody (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up testing (e.g., IgM antibodies or PCR) may be recommended if initial results are positive or symptoms persist.
Can I get Lyme disease from this test?
No, this test only detects antibodies—it does not diagnose infection directly. If you suspect Lyme disease, discuss symptoms, tick exposure, and test results with your provider for guidance.
What if my results are positive?
A positive result suggests past exposure or possible infection. Your provider will assess symptoms, medical history, and may recommend additional tests (e.g., IgM antibodies, culture, or PCR) to confirm Lyme disease and guide treatment.
  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