IgG anti-Borrelia spp. Antigens (B. apsei, burgdorferi, garinii), Western Blot

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

IgG antibodies to bacteria of the genus Borrelia spp. (including B. afzelii, B. burgdorferi, B. garinii) are specific immunoglobulins produced in response to infection causing Lyme disease.

The Western Blot method detects antibodies against individual Borrelia proteins, making it a highly specific confirmatory test. It is typically used to confirm or clarify screening test results (e.g., ELISA). The presence of IgG antibodies generally indicates a current or past infection, especially in later stages.

What is Lyme disease
Lyme disease is an infectious disease transmitted through the bite of infected ticks and caused by bacteria of the genus Borrelia spp..

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

Main manifestations:

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

Without timely treatment, the disease may become chronic.

Indications

• positive or equivocal ELISA result for borreliosis
• history of tick bite
• symptoms suggestive of Lyme disease
• persistent unexplained joint pain
• neurological symptoms (numbness, headache, sensory disturbances)
• suspected late or chronic infection
• post-treatment monitoring

Procedure

• venous blood collection
• takes a few minutes
• performed in laboratory conditions

Method
Immunoblot (Western Blot) - a highly specific method for detecting antibodies to individual Borrelia proteins
 

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532894/
https://gh.bmj.com/content/7/6/e007744
https://www.nature.com/articles/nrneurol.2015.121
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borrelia_burgdorferi

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section 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 qualified healthcare professional for diagnostic tests and appropriate treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of treatment. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them conducted at the same laboratory. Different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.