Lyme Disease Antibody Panel – Progress, PA
Below is a plain-language overview of the lyme disease antibody test in Progress, PA. The Lyme disease antibody test checks your blood for antibodies your immune system makes after exposure to Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium spread by certain tick bites. It is usually ordered when someone has symptoms such as a rash, fever, or joint aches and may have been bitten by a tick.
For the full, location-independent guide to this test, see Lyme Disease Antibody Panel explained.
- Sample type
- blood
- Category
- General Wellness
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Price
- $159
- Referral
- Not required
The Lyme disease antibody test checks your blood for antibodies your immune system makes after exposure to Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium spread by certain tick bites. It is usually ordered when someone has symptoms such as a rash, fever, or joint aches and may have been bitten by a tick.
About lyme disease antibody panel in Progress
Progress is a smaller community in Mid-Atlantic, where residents have dependable access to clinical laboratory services. Across Mid-Atlantic, there is a continuous band of cities and boroughs where a collection lab is seldom far away.
Rather than calling around, compare tests here, then arrange a draw in the Progress area when it suits you.
Confidentiality is built in — orders are private and results are accessed securely. Because individual sites vary, double-check the lab's own guidance on preparation, timing, and cost.
What it measures
- IgM antibodies — Early immune response; can appear within weeks of infection.
- IgG antibodies — Later immune response; often used to confirm exposure over time.
- Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) — First-step screening test that detects antibodies broadly.
- Western blot — Second-step test that checks for specific antibody patterns.
Preparation
No fasting or special preparation is needed. Tell your clinician about any antibiotics you are taking, since they can affect antibody results.
Results and what they mean
Results are usually reported as negative, positive, or equivocal, sometimes with individual band patterns from a Western blot. A clinician interprets these results alongside your symptoms and exposure history. This is general information, not medical advice; discuss your results with a qualified healthcare professional.
How to order in Progress
- Place a confidential order for the lyme disease antibody panel online.
- Choose a collection site in or near Progress, PA.
- Attend your appointment — most draws take only a few minutes.
- Review results securely, typically within 1–3 days.
Confirm preparation, hours, and any fees with the collection lab in Progress before your visit.
Frequently asked questions
How soon after a tick bite can this test be positive?
It may take several weeks after infection for antibodies to reach detectable levels, so a test very soon after a bite can be negative even if infection occurred.
Does a positive result always mean I have Lyme disease?
No. A positive result shows exposure to the bacterium, but a clinician must consider symptoms and other findings to interpret it.
Can antibiotics affect the test result?
Yes. Antibiotics taken before testing may lower antibody levels and affect results, so tell your clinician about any recent antibiotic use.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink normally unless your clinician gives other instructions.