posted
Docs in the U.S. who treat lyme do not think this test is any better. Of course, that is in comparison with the ELISA available here. Is it different in Canada? Generally, people are using test kits that are widely available, not country specific.
Posts: 8430 | From Not available | Registered: Oct 2000
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lululymemom
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 26405
posted
I'm addressing this to anyone that can't afford to pay for the specialized tests that are out there.
If you must see your GP or regular MD for a test for Lyme, the C6 Elisa is a better option than the standard Elisa that is currently being used.
Having spoken with Dr. M here in BC, who is quite well known in the Lyme world, he advised that I should have requested this test instead of the one they gave me.
Canada is notorious for not having LLMD's, we take what we can get here.
Having said that, some provinces are now allowing ND's to obtain their pharmaceutical licenses, which should have some impact on the treatment of Lyme. It's a step in the right direction, in my opinion.
posted
I see. Well, good luck with this. We sure do need better tests everywhere.
Posts: 8430 | From Not available | Registered: Oct 2000
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posted
Hey Lulu, Just to let you know that while I am currently still seeing LD in Sea. area I also have very knowledgable ND up here.
Just got tested for Bart up here thru some lab that came back - but still treating on clinical symptoms. + Fry.
The ND I see is seeing hundreds of Lyme ptnts. in the province. Will ask him about this test. Its hard not to be cynical after all the junk we've had to put up with. PM if you'd like his name.
He is known by Dr. M as well.
Posts: 146 | From Vancouver, BC | Registered: Dec 2009
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lululymemom
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 26405
Here in BC, even if your physician speicfically writes "C6 Elisa" on your requisition form, your sample will still go to the BCCDC for screening with the regular ELISA prior to any C6 or Western Blot test.
If the BCCDC decides you are positive by their ELISA, then your sample will be sent to Winnipeg for your C6 and they will do a Western Blot, which is subjective and may rule out the positive result of your standard ELISA. However, it will not overrule a positive result of your C6 ELISA from the National Lab.
On another note, the BCCDC will likely call your physician and ask why he or she has requested this rare request of the C6 ELISA, and will explain to them just how accurate and reliable their standard ELISA screening is. They may even add in how truly rare Lyme Disease in BC is and how unlikely it is that you have it.
Been down that road and so have others.
According to our National Lab in Winnipeg, any Canadian can have his physician request a C6 and have it done by the National Lab in Winnipeg paid for by your tax dollars. This doesn't apply to BC, and our National Lab doesn't really understand why but they all know each other on some professional level and don't want to step on each others' toes...I've spoken to them.
Posts: 410 | From Victoria BC, Canada | Registered: Jul 2008
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