Tick-borne Encephalitis IgG Antibodies

Tick-borne Encephalitis virus IgM antibody test is a blood test designed for the detection of acute tick-borne encephalitis infection. The test is conducted using the immunoenzyme (ELISA) method, which allows for the identification of specific IgM class antibodies that form in the early stages of the disease. IgM antibodies are usually detectable from the first week of the disease and indicate an active, recently initiated infection.

The tick-borne encephalitis virus spreads through the bite of an infected tick — the infection is transmitted through saliva when the tick attaches to human skin. The incubation period lasts from 2 to 28 days, most often 7–14 days. The first phase of the disease can last 1–8 days and may present with fever, fatigue, weakness, and headache, muscle, and joint pain. Later, some patients develop the second phase — central nervous system damage (encephalitis, meningitis, or meningoencephalitis).

The IgM test is the primary diagnostic method during acute infection, and additionally, IgG antibodies are often tested, which indicate a past infection or immune response after vaccination.

Test principle: The test is performed from venous blood using the immunoenzyme method (ELISA). Results are presented quantitatively or as positive/negative.

Recommendations:

• It is recommended to perform if symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weakness, headache, and muscle pain appear after a tick bite.
• Useful for differentiating viral encephalitis from other infections or neurological conditions.
• Prescribed for early diagnosis of infection and monitoring the course of the disease.
• Suitable for patients living in or visiting forest, meadow areas, especially during tick activity periods (spring and summer).
• The test is performed regardless of eating, but it's important to inform the doctor about recent vaccinations or the date of the onset of disease symptoms.