Do you have to have a lumbar puncture to tell if you have CNS involvement? Is that the only way to tell? Thanks.
Posted by johnnyb (Member # 7645) on :
My LP included a PCR test for lyme, but nothing was found. I believe that there is only a 20% chance or so of actually finding lyme in the spinal fluid each time a tap is done. If they are checking for other things as well, a tap can sometimes provide valuable information, but if you are considering doing one just for lyme diagnosis, I would think twice. Speaking from my own experience of course, but discuss with your doctor. My tap procedure went fine, but the headache afterwards incapacitated me for over a week. My boss was thrillied, as you can imagine. If you already have a positive DX for lyme, you can probably go by symptoms to see if you have nervous system involvement. Always discuss with your doctor....
- JB
Posted by Monica (Member # 224) on :
Your symptoms should be sufficient to show that you have CNS infection. I would not recommend a lumbar puncture unless it is necessary to relieve pressure.
I am not a medical professional I hasten to add.
Posted by EtherealGirl (Member # 4780) on :
I agree. I already had a positive WB and clinical dx, but my doctor suggested the LP anyway. It was negative, and at that point they decided I was cured (3 months of abx).
I don't think it's worth the pain and suffering because the test is so unreliable. You know best if you have CNS impairments.