I know that LabCorp and most other 'standard' labs are not recommended - but I need some educated advice?
IF one 'had' to use LabCorp, which of the following 5 tests would be most appropriate for an old infection? If a preference is given, would appreciate any explanation possible?
1:Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi), PCR 2:Lyme Disease Antibodies, Including Reflex to Western Blot on Positives 3:Lyme Disease Antibodies, Total and IgM Responses 4:Lyme Disease, Serum, Western Blot 5:Lyme Disease/Syphilis Antibodies Differential Profile
By the way, this is NOT an endorsement for this lab or any other. I'm just a patient trying to find answers and I have easier access to the above tests than some of the specialty labs.
Thanks for any advice,
MB
Posted by LaurenMiddleTN (Member # 35174) on :
Hello, Within 4 weeks of each other, I had 1 and 3 done - twice, with negative results both times. Then I requested the doctor run all test again with the western blot (2)even though it is usually only done after a positive result. Finally I received my positive result Note: the first two draws were done with a butterfly needle. I mention this because the nurse who drew the 3rd test was the one who told me butterfly needles could have caused a false negative due to blood cell damage done by the small needle on the draw. Just an FYI; good luck!
Posted by CountryMouse (Member # 32073) on :
Holy cow, I did not know that about the needle! I have horribly tiny veins and almost always have to have a butterfly needle. Learn something new every day!