lyme disease igg antibody immunoblot test

This is a broad viral identification test using electron microscopy to visually detect and identify viruses in clinical specimens. Electron microscopy allows direct visualization of viral particles, enabling identification of various virus types. Results depend on the specimen type and the virus present. This test is used when other methods cannot identify a pathogen or when rapid viral identification is needed. Positive results confirm viral infection and guide treatment and infection control measures.

This test screens for Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi transmitted through tick bites. It detects IgM antibodies (early infection) and IgG antibodies (past or recent infection). If positive, the test automatically 'reflex' to an immune blot panel for confirmation, which is more specific. This two-step approach reduces false positives. Early Lyme disease causes flu-like symptoms and a distinctive rash, while late disease can affect joints, heart, and nerves. Diagnosis and early treatment are important.

Qualitative detection of IgG antibodies against Borrelia afzelii, B burgdorferi, and B garinii species in human serum. This test does not differentiate between the Borrelia species. This term was created for, but not limited in use to, the Borrelia ViraStripe IgG assay, which uses native, purified antigens immobilized on a test strip to which patient antibodies, if present, will bind. Various manufacturers label this method as an immunoblot technique. LOINC uses the immunoblot (IB) method to mean that some electrophoretic/chromatographic separation occurs such that position (size) of the band is part of the laboratory assessment (as in Western blot). Because this assay does not involve a separation step but rather uses strips with pre-fixed antigens, the LOINC Method is Line blot.