2268. Quantiferon test. Lyme borreliosis (Lyme disease, plasma)
Description
The Quantiferon test is an innovative laboratory analysis that helps detect Lyme disease in its early stages. It combines the detection of specific antibodies using chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) with the assessment of cellular immune response by measuring interferon-gamma (IGRA).
The Quantiferon Lyme test opens new opportunities for early diagnosis, even when antibodies are absent (the so-called serological window), and provides informative results as early as 7-10 days after infection.
When and who needs the test?
When to use the test:
- If erythema migrans is absent but other symptoms appear within the first weeks after a tick bite, or after possible tick exposure in an endemic region.
- If serology (IgM, IgG) is negative but clinical signs suggest Lyme disease.
- In diagnostically complex cases (e.g., atypical skin manifestations).
Who should consider the test:
- Children and adults with nonspecific symptoms after a tick bite or possible exposure, especially if serology is negative.
- People at higher risk, such as forestry workers, hunters, park rangers, or residents of endemic areas.
Biological material
- Venous blood
Preparing for a blood test
In order to exclude factors that may affect the test results, we recommend to follow the preparation rules:
- an important condition for laboratory tests is to take blood on an empty stomach.
- 6-12 hours before the test, you should avoid eating, drinking alcohol, smoking, and limit physical activity. Drinking...