Lyme test (public health lab)

What this test is

This blood test checks for Lyme disease. Lyme disease is an infection spread by certain tick bites. The test looks for antibodies your body makes after exposure. If you have the classic early rash, a growing red circle where a tick bit you, your doctor can treat you right away. That's true if you also had a real chance of tick exposure. You would not need to wait for this test. The test is most useful without that rash. It helps when there's a real chance of tick exposure and symptoms that fit later-stage Lyme disease. Examples are joint swelling or nerve problems. Ontario's public health lab runs this test with a validated two-step method. It is not a good way to explain ongoing fatigue or vague symptoms on its own. You need a tick exposure history to go with it.