Is it possible to have positive IGM bands but not have an active infection? I was on antibiotics for about 3 months, 1 month being IV...
Now I just got retested and still am showing IGM 23 and 41 positive. Nothing has changed. I am also still symptomatic.
Is it possible that my body is still producing antibodies but that my Lyme is eradicated and these are just lingering symptoms...As it can take up to a year for them to be resolved?
Thanks!
Posted by Dawnee (Member # 15089) on :
I don't think so... it is most likely that you have an active infection.. Anyone else have any thoughts..?
Posted by Mtgirl (Member # 13278) on :
Same thing here, although I got my first positive Westen Blot ( months into treatment. The first 10 weeks included IV rocephin, then orals after that. I think we are still dealing with an active infection. My bands are 23 and 41, too.
Posted by yanivnaced (Member # 13212) on :
Although it is believed IgM antibodies are for active infection, I personally believe IgM can be circulating around even months after the last traces of spirochetes in the bloodstream.
Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
Bb can hide from the immune system. It has many ways to do this. I believe that once it comes back out of hiding your immune system would say "LOOK a 'NEW' infection", not realizing it's been there all along.
That's just MY speculation.
Posted by Amanda (Member # 14107) on :
IgM antibodies indicate an active infection. However, they can still linger around in your blood stream for 16 months or so. The lenght of time these antibodies are present varies between people, and depends on a lot of different factors.
I would say that the important thing is to treat your symptoms, NOT the test results. If you are still symptomatic, then it seems you need more treatment. Most of the LLMDs treat until you feel well, and after a few months of feeling well, then they stop treatment.
Posted by gemofnj (Member # 15551) on :
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