Is there a PCR test for Lyme disease?

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing detects the genetic material (DNA) of the Lyme disease bacteria. PCR testing may be used to identify a current (active) infection if you have symptoms of Lyme disease that have not gotten better with antibiotic treatment.

Is there a DNA test for Lyme disease?

Lyme Disease (Borrelia spp) DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR, Blood – The diagnosis of Lyme disease is most often made by clinical examination combined with evidence of tick bite or exposure in endemic areas. Amplification of Borrelia genomic DNA from blood, fluids or tissues can support the diagnosis.

What is the two stage testing methodology for Lyme disease?

Recommended testing for antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi entails a two-tier algorithm. The first is a quantitative test, typically an enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). If that result is either positive or equivocal, then a second-tier test, a western immunoblot, is performed.

Can you test for Lyme disease years later?

Your immune system continues to make the antibodies for months or years after the infection is gone. This means that once your blood tests positive, it will continue to test positive for months to years even though the bacteria are no longer present.

Can you test for Lyme disease 10 years later?

No. The tests for Lyme disease detect antibodies made by the immune system to fight off the bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi. Your immune system continues to make the antibodies for months or years after the infection is gone.

How are two tiered Lyme disease tests done?

Two-tiered Lyme disease testing uses two tests. The first is a screening test that should detect anyone who might have the disease. Tests that do this well have are regarded as having high sensitivity. This test is followed by a second test that is intended to make sure that only people with the disease are diagnosed.

Is the current test for Lyme disease accurate?

Since the 1990s, the CDC has known the test for Lyme disease is inadequate. Yet, the sensitivity of the test has improved only 4% over the 20-year study period. This study indicates that the current testing approach for Lyme disease is highly inaccurate.

What does a positive PCR test mean for Lyme disease?

A positive result on PCR testing indicates an infection with Borrelia. A negative PCR test result means you do not have Lyme disease or the levels of DNA are too low to detect. Is there anything else I should know?

What kind of DNA is used to detect Lyme disease?

This assay detects most members of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex, including B andersonii, B americana, and B bissettii, which have been rarely detected in humans. Detection of DNA from these organisms would be reported as an atypical result and prompt additional laboratory testing to further identify the DNA present.