Laboratory analyses for Lyme disease

Numerous techniques are available for the laboratory diagnosis of Lyme disease. Assays for the detection of antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi are the most practical means of confirming infection. False positive reactions can occur, but the more serious disadvantages are low sensitivity and lengthy processing time. Nonetheless, serologic tests are being improved and remain valuable research and diagnostic tools. Serologic test results for antibodies to B. burgdorferi should be considered along with clinical data and epidemiological information when evaluating a patient for Lyme disease.