Determination of Lyme Borreliosis IgG Immunoblotting

The Lyme disease (borreliosis) IgG immunoblotting test is a confirmatory laboratory test used for diagnosing late or chronic borreliosis infection when IgG class immunity against Borrelia bacteria has already formed. The test is performed using the immunoblotting method, which allows precise determination of specific antibodies against individual borrelia proteins.

This method is applied after an initial ELISA test when a positive or borderline result is obtained, to confirm the infection and reduce the likelihood of false-positive results.

IgG antibodies appear in the blood at a later stage of infection, usually 4–6 weeks after a tick bite. Their detection indicates that the body has either recovered from or is still suffering from Lyme disease. During immunoblotting, the reaction to specific Borrelia burgdorferi proteins, such as p100, p41, OspC, VlsE, and others, is analyzed.

Test principle: The test is performed from venous blood serum. Using immunoblot technology, it is tested whether IgG antibodies present in the patient's blood bind to borrelia antigens. Results are interpreted based on the strength of the reaction with certain proteins – a positive result is determined when it meets international diagnostic criteria (according to the number and strength of bands).

Recommendations:

• Recommended after a positive or borderline ELISA IgG test result.
• Useful for diagnosing late or chronic borreliosis and differentiating other origin neurological or joint disorders.
• Prescribed for patients who have experienced more than 4 weeks since a tick bite and exhibit characteristic symptoms: joint pain, neurological disorders, persistent fatigue.
• The test may be useful for evaluating a previously contracted Lyme disease if the diagnosis was unclear.
• No specific preparation is required for the test, but it is recommended to arrive on an empty stomach.