Blood Tests for Diagnosing Lyme Disease
A series of blood tests can be done in the lab to help detect antibodies related to Lyme disease. These include:
– ELISA or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay: This procedure can identify antibodies in the blood stream.
– IgG antibody test identifies the IgG antibody in the blood, which helps fight against bacterial infection
– IgM antibody test identifies the IgM antibody in the blood, which is present when you are infected
– Western blot: This is a follow-up test that can help identify antibodies and proteins in the blood. It should be done during the first 1 month of the infection
A doctor will perform the ELISA test first. If you get ambiguous or positive results, an IgG or IgM immunoblot or immunoassay is suggested to confirm. [4]
