Lyme Disease Serology

Tube Type

Test ID		LAB5354
EPIC Order		LYME DISEASE SEROLOGY
CPT Code(s)		86618
Group/Individual Test		Individual
Laboratory		Clinical Immunology
Tube Station		30
Specimen	Routine:	2 mL blood/Gold SST tube
Availability	Routine:	Monday - Friday
	STAT:	N/A
Turnaround Time		3-5 Days
Reference Range	Normal:	Negative: See Comments.
Comments	Tick-Borne Illness Panel (see the table) is the preferred laboratory test for tick-borne infections in North Carolina. All Lyme disease serology samples are tested using a qualitative, chemiluminescence immunoassay for the detection of IgG and IgM antibodies to the VlsE protein of Borrelia burgdorferi in human serum samples. The test is intended as an aid in the diagnosis of Lyme disease. Results are reported as negative or See Western Blot. A negative result indicates the absence of detectable Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies. A negative result does not exclude the possibility of Borrelia burgdorferi infection. If early Lyme disease is suspected, a second sample should be collected and tested two to four weeks later. A positive result indicates the presence of detectable Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies. Current testing guidelines (MMWR. August 11, 1995 / 44(31);590-591) recommend that all positive results be supplemented by further testing in a standardized Western blot assay. Positive and equivocal samples are reflexed to a send out Western blot assay via the Referral Testing Laboratory. See also:Lyme Disease \| Lyme Disease \| CDC

Reviewed by J. Carr on November 04, 2025

UNC Hospitals
McLendon Clinical Laboratories
101 Manning Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27514