Antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi VlsE, IgG

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

IgG antibodies to the VlsE (Variable major protein-like sequence, expressed) protein are specific immunoglobulins produced by the immune system in response to infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi - the causative agent of Lyme disease.

The VlsE protein is one of the most specific antigens of Borrelia. Detection of IgG antibodies usually indicates a current or past infection and is more typical for later stages of the disease.

What is Lyme disease
Lyme disease is an infectious disease transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. It is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi.

The disease progresses in stages and may affect the skin, joints, nervous system, and heart.

Main manifestations:

• early stage: erythema migrans (skin rash), fever, fatigue
• later stages: joint pain, neurological symptoms, chronic fatigue

With timely diagnosis, it responds well to antibiotic treatment, but without treatment it may become chronic.

Indications

• history of tick bite
• presence of erythema migrans
• unexplained joint pain
• neurological symptoms (headache, numbness, sensory disturbances)
• persistent fatigue of unclear origin
• suspected late or chronic Lyme disease
• post-treatment monitoring
• clarification of screening test results

Procedure

• venous blood collection
• takes a few minutes
• performed under standard laboratory conditions

Method
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detection of IgG antibodies to VlsE antigen

Sources:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18197445/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7162589/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1198743X1462214X

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided here is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any symptoms or a worsening of a condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the suitable course of treatment. For the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have the tests performed at the same laboratory. Different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.