IgM 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.

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

The Western Blot method detects antibodies to specific Borrelia proteins and is used as a highly specific confirmatory test. Detection of IgM antibodies may indicate a recent or ongoing infection.

What is Lyme disease
Lyme disease is an infectious disease transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, 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, persistent fatigue

Without timely treatment, the disease may become chronic.

Indications

• suspicion of recent Borrelia infection
• early symptoms after tick bite
• erythema migrans
• fever and unexplained malaise
• positive or equivocal ELISA result
• need for confirmation of Lyme disease diagnosis

Procedure

• venous blood collection
• quick procedure (a few minutes)
• performed in a laboratory

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

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8934319/
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=borrelia_antibody_lyme
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8694107/

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 flare-up of a condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic testing and treatment. Only a qualified specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan. To obtain the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.