What do the results mean?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a two-test process of your sample:
If your first test result is negative for Lyme disease, you don't need any more testing.
If your first result is positive for Lyme disease, your blood will get a second test.
If both results are positive for Lyme disease and you also have symptoms of infection, you probably have Lyme disease.
Positive results don't always mean a Lyme disease diagnosis. In some cases, you can have a positive result but not have an infection. Positive results may also mean you have an autoimmune disease, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
If your lumbar puncture results are positive, it may mean you have Lyme disease, but you might need more tests to confirm a diagnosis.
If your health care provider thinks you have Lyme disease, he or she will prescribe antibiotic treatment. Most people who are treated with antibiotics in the early stage of disease will make a complete recovery.
Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.
