P.ciała przeciw Borrelia IgM

Borrelia IgM – Antibody Test for Lyme Disease

The Borrelia IgM test is one of the primary laboratory tests performed when Lyme disease is suspected – a tick-borne illness caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. Infection is transmitted through bites from infected ticks, and early diagnosis of Lyme disease is crucial for effective treatment.

The test measures the level of IgM class antibodies produced by the body in response to infection. Their presence may indicate an early or active stage of the disease. IgM antibodies typically appear in the serum 2 to 4 weeks after infection, so a positive IgM result is often the first sign of the ongoing disease process.

When Should You Take the Test?

Symptoms that may indicate the need to test for Borrelia IgM antibodies include:

• Skin changes: e.g., erythema migrans – a spreading red rash (>5 cm), usually appearing between 5 and 60 days after a tick bite.
• Joint symptoms: pain in small joints of the hands, feet, ankles, as well as knees, hips, elbows, or shoulders – which may occur without swelling or redness.
• Neurological symptoms: involving peripheral nerves (e.g., brachial plexitis, radiculopathy, polyneuropathy) and cranial nerves (e.g., facial nerve palsy, trigeminal nerve palsy), as well as possible symptoms affecting the central nervous system (memory disturbances, headaches and dizziness, cognitive difficulties).

Procedure and Preparation for the Test

The IgM antibody test against Borrelia burgdorferi is performed using a venous blood sample. The blood draw usually takes just a few to several seconds and does not require any special preparation from the patient. The procedure includes skin disinfection, applying a tourniquet, and brief pressure after the sample is taken.

Importantly, there are no contraindications for this test – it can be performed on any patient regardless of age or health status. The test is completely safe and routinely used in the diagnosis of tick-borne diseases.

Test Result – When and How to Receive It?

The Borrelia IgM test result is usually available within three business days. Patients can collect it in person at any Medicover Medical Center or log in to the online system after obtaining a personal access password at the facility’s reception.

What Does the Test Result Mean?

A positive IgM result should be confirmed with a more specific test, such as the Western blot method. The presence of IgM antibodies indicates contact with Borrelia burgdorferi and usually disappears within six months.

The diagnosis of Lyme disease is based on test results and clinical symptoms. Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics, typically for 3–4 weeks. Symptoms may persist for several months after therapy.