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Borrelia Burgdorferi IgG IgM (Western Blot)

What Is the Borrelia burgdorferi IgG and IgM Western Blot Test?

The Borrelia burgdorferi IgG and IgM Western blot is a specialised laboratory test used to detect antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease. This tick-borne illness can lead to a range of symptoms including fever, fatigue, joint pain, and the classic erythema migrans (bullseye) rash.

Purpose of the Western Blot in Lyme Disease Diagnosis

While Lyme disease is primarily diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and history of tick exposure, the Western blot test serves as a confirmatory tool. It helps distinguish Lyme disease from other conditions with similar symptoms by identifying specific antibodies produced in response to B. burgdorferi.

How the Western Blot Test Works

The Western blot is an immunoblotting technique that separates and identifies individual bacterial proteins. During the test:

A blood sample is applied to a membrane containing B. burgdorferi proteins

If the patient has been infected, their immune system will have produced antibodies (IgG and/or IgM) that bind to these bacterial proteins

A secondary antibody is used to detect these bound antibodies, producing visible bands on the blot that confirm antibody presence

Difference Between IgM and IgG Antibodies

IgM Antibodies: Appear early in the infection, typically within weeks of exposure

IgG Antibodies: Develop later and may remain detectable for months or years after infection

The presence of both IgM and IgG antibodies strongly suggests a current or past infection with Borrelia burgdorferi.

When Is This Test Recommended?

Individuals with persistent symptoms suggestive of Lyme disease

Patients with a history of tick bites or travel to tick-endemic areas

Cases where earlier Lyme disease tests were inconclusive

To confirm diagnosis after a positive or borderline screening ELISA test

Borrelia burgdorferi Western Blot Testing in Slough and Surrounding Areas

Private Lyme disease Western blot testing for IgG and IgM is available in Slough, Windsor, Langley, Maidenhead, and surrounding Berkshire areas. If you are experiencing symptoms of Lyme disease or need a confirmatory test following tick exposure, local diagnostic services in Slough offer accurate, specialist testing to support timely and effective treatment.

There is an additional £20 phlebotomy fee for every donation.