Lyme Disease (Borrelia Antibodies) IgG/IgM
This test detects IgG and IgM antibodies to Borrelia bacteria. It helps assess current or past Lyme disease infection following tick exposure.
Turnaround time
10 days
Biomarkers count
2
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Details about Lyme Disease (Borrelia Antibodies) IgG/IgM
What is the Lyme Disease (Borrelia Antibodies) IgG/IgM Test?
The Lyme Disease (Borrelia Antibodies) IgG/IgM test is a blood test that detects antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infection with Borrelia bacteria. These bacteria are transmitted through tick bites and are responsible for Lyme disease.
IgM antibodies typically appear in the early stages of infection, while IgG antibodies develop later and may persist for months or years. Testing both antibody types provides insight into the timing and likelihood of exposure.
This test is commonly used when Lyme disease is suspected based on symptoms, exposure history or unexplained multi-system illness.
Why do I need a test for Lyme Disease (Borrelia Antibodies)?
You may need this test if you have symptoms following a tick bite or if you live in or have travelled to areas where Lyme disease is prevalent. Lyme disease can affect the skin, joints, nervous system and heart if left untreated.
Early identification supports timely antibiotic treatment and reduces the risk of long-term complications. Testing is also useful when symptoms are non-specific and other causes have been excluded.
Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:
- Tick bite or tick exposure
- Expanding skin rash (erythema migrans)
- Joint pain or swelling
- Fatigue or flu-like symptoms
- Headaches or neck stiffness
- Nerve pain or tingling
- Facial weakness (Bell’s palsy)
- Memory or concentration difficulties
Benefits of the Lyme Disease (Borrelia Antibodies) Test
- Detects immune response to Borrelia infection
Identifies antibody production following exposure. - Assesses both early and late infection
IgM and IgG provide timing context. - Supports diagnosis when symptoms are unclear
Useful in multi-system presentations. - Guides timely treatment decisions
Early detection reduces complication risk. - Non-invasive blood-based testing
No exposure to live organisms required. - Supports investigation of chronic symptoms
Useful in persistent or unexplained illness. - Widely used in infectious disease assessment
Established diagnostic approach. - Complements clinical and exposure history
Improves diagnostic confidence.
Step-by-Step: How Testing Works
Choose your preferred testing method
You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.
Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw
- Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
- A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
- The sample is analysed for Borrelia IgG and IgM antibodies.
- Results are delivered securely online.
Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)
- Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
- A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
- The sample is transported to the laboratory.
- Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.
Your Results Explained
Negative Result
No Borrelia IgG or IgM antibodies detected.
This suggests no evidence of Lyme disease, though very early infection cannot be fully excluded.
IgM Positive / IgG Negative
May indicate recent or early infection.
Clinical correlation and repeat testing may be advised.
IgG Positive (with or without IgM)
Suggests past or established infection.
Interpretation depends on symptoms, timing and treatment history.
Antibody results should always be interpreted alongside clinical findings.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.