Can anyone tell me if the ELISA lyme testing is a reliable test? If not, what is the best test to have? Thanks.
Posted by dmc (Member # 5102) on :
That is a no...actually there is no really good test. Western Blot from Igenex is okay. Lyme is to be a Clinical diagnosis w/tests to confirm but diagnosed by symptoms etc.
great booklet to print out w/info is green booklet from http://lymepa.org
From Anna Lee's post at top of page - her quick links to popular topics very informative
Elisa only tests one band and doesn't allow variation. NIH sample study on Elisa indicated 45% false negatives (i.e. the negative Elisa but positive Western Blot) BUT CDC recomendations are do this test first and if positive then do the western blot.
LLMD's do the WB from Igenex and the results MAY confirm the clinical diagnosis.
Unfortunately most doctors rely on the Infectious Disease Society guidelines which rely on testing.
My daughter had a negative Elisa back in October and both the pediatrician and infectious disease MD's stated no Lyme.
We just received Igenex WB results IGG (30+, 34 & 39 INDETERMINATE) indicating Lyme but not positvie under Igenex and CDC guidelines. 41++ but this is flagela not bb specific.
So we at least have confimed Lyme just not good enough for the main stream MD's and insurers.
Posted by littlebit27 (Member # 24477) on :
But even if you confirm it good enough for the CDC and mainstream Docs they still won't treat it long enough.
So the only answer to both testing and treating is to find an LLMD.
I had a negative ELISA and WB through mainstream labs. I am Igenex pos, CDC neg.
Posted by justbrowsin (Member # 25684) on :
wasn't for me.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
NOPE... unless it comes back POSITIVE!! If it does, you can take that to the bank!
They are known for their false NEGATIVES!!
Posted by groovy2 (Member # 6304) on :
Totally agree with what Lymetoo says--Jay--
Posted by onbam (Member # 23758) on :