Has anyone ever had a lumbar puncture performed to
support their disagnosis of lyme ? If so what was
your experience and results.
Thanks !
Posted by dmc (Member # 5102) on :
Hurts like heck...not good for diagnosing lyme... I will NEVER get one again unless I'm in a coma. Just my opinion.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
NO! Don't waste money and spinal fluid!!
You also put yourself at risk of infection... all for a test that is about 20% accurate in dxing Lyme.
I would not do it unless my life was in immediate danger...or as dmc said, if I was in a coma.
I agree with the reasons given. Also, few in insurance or the medical community know how UNreliable test results are.
If you have a negative Lyme result from the spinal tap, it will be in your medical records. There's a chance it could work against your getting a diagnosis and treatment for Lyme.
I recommend spending that money on tests from labs that specialize in Tick-Borne Diseases (TBDs). You have a better chance of a more reliable result.
Posted by hcconn22 (Member # 5263) on :
A lumbar puncture is not a good test for Lyme. Very poor outcomes and painful.
A PCR blood test which tests for the DNA of Lyme antibodies in your blood is a much better and accurate test. Igenex is one of the best at this.
Most doctors who do lumbar punctures--
1) Are not experienced in Dx and treatment of Lyme
and
2) Test is done to DENY treatment and coverage as most test negative.
Lyme is a spirochete and does not only live in your spinal fluid. It can be in your joints, tendons, brain, heart and or other vital organs.