LymeNet Flash: Sons WB IGM results higher after abx

This is topic Sons WB IGM results higher after abx in forum Medical Questions at LymeNet Flash.

To visit this topic, use this URL:
https://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/ultimatebb.php/topic/1/37280

Posted by briteeyes30 (Member # 7742) on :

My son was tested first when he had the EM rash and lyme meningitis. His results were positive through quest for 5 bands IGG and 2 bands IGM.

When I found Dr J austin had already been on his iv meds for 3 weeks and 1 week left to go. Dr J extended his meds for 2 months more due to still showing symptoms. They took blood and sent it off to Igx and quest.

The results from this one were IGG 5 bands and IGM 6 bands. Why would the IGM go from 2 bands to 6 bands?

The following week after dr J visit is when austin started to herx due to all these symptoms popping out during the 4/5 week of abx and they also switched his abx from rocephin to claforan.

Anyone help me understand plz

Posted by lou (Member # 81) on :

Well, Dr. J could give you a better explanation than any of us, but I wonder if it is because his immune system is now producing antibodies more efficiently. Some people who are completely seronegative become positive after treatment because of this.

Posted by Lyddie on :

This happened to me.

Sometimes, the meds stir the bugs up from their hiding places, and more antibodies are produced. This would seem to be more likely with a longstanding infection, in which the bacteria had already sequestered in tissues.

Immune system issues might also affect antibody production, as Lou said, and maybe abx restore some immune function-?

Dr. J could definitely explain. But just so you know, this is not at all uncommon.