Lyme Disease Serology

Microbiology

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Test Usage

Diagnosis of Lyme disease ( Borrelia burgdorferi infection).

Specimen

Blood sample (serum)

Specimen container

Gold top clotted (5ml)

To Request On EPIC

For electronic requesting using EPIC (RDUH ONLY):

Search for: ‘Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) Serology and PCR‘ or test code ‘O1230203‘

Special Instructions

Take samples for testing 4-6 weeks after symptom onset – not earlier as there is then a higher risk of false negative results

Please provide the following information. Please note: failure to provide information will result in sample not being tested

• Does the patient recall a tick bite? If yes- please state date of tick bite
• Please state date of onset of symptoms
• Please give details of symptoms
• Please state if patient has any neurological and/ or ophthalmic symptoms

Availability

Processed locally in Microbiology at RDUH

Reference Laboratory

Positive samples referred to Reference laboratory for further testing

Turnaround Time

7 days

 

http://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng95

http://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/694158/PHE_Tick_Leaflet.pdf

Please click here for the Lyme Disease FAQ 

 

(Key words: Lymes)

Specimen Labelling Procedure