Lyme Disease Antibody Test
Below is a plain-language overview of the lyme disease antibody test. 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.
- 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.
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.
Who it is for
A doctor or other clinician typically orders this test when symptoms and possible tick exposure suggest Lyme disease. It is not a routine screening test for people without symptoms.
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 this test
- Choose the test and place a confidential order online.
- Select a certified collection site and pick a time that suits you.
- Have your specimen collected — most draws take only a few minutes.
- Review results in a secure portal, typically within 1–3 days.
Preparation, hours, and pricing vary by site; confirm details directly with the lab before your visit.
Availability by state
Direct-access online ordering for the lyme disease antibody test is available in most states. It is currently unavailable in 6 states:
Everywhere else you can order confidentially and collect your sample at a certified site. Browse by state →
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.