LymeNet Flash: Should I test for Co-Infections??

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»	LymeNet Flash » Questions and Discussion » Medical Questions » Should I test for Co-Infections??

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Topic: Should I test for Co-Infections??

soonermom
LymeNet Contributor
Member # 14494

posted

My LLMD doesn't really recommend testing for the co-infections because they aren't all that accurate for those of us in the middle of the country.(midwestern strains not always picked up on tests)

He does treat based on clinical symptoms and was planning on treating me for bart and babs.

I am currently off abx due to elevated liver enzymes (almost 6 weeks now). Would it be worth doing any testing for co-infections at this point. I had already started abx before my 1st LLMD appointment and so never really had the opportunity to test for these before.

The only thing I was thinking was maybe I wouldn't have to treat something that I didn't have and risk more *problems* with my liver??
I guess if the tests aren't that accurate for the midwestern strains maybe it wouldn't be worth the $$$?

Have any of you from the midwest tested positive for co-infections??

--------------------
3/08 CDC Positive
IgM 18++ 23-25IND 31++++ 34++ 39+ 41+++ 58+ 83-93+

CDC Negative
IgG 31IND 39IND 41+++ 58+ 66+

Posts: 274 | From oklahoma | Registered: Jan 2008 | IP: Logged |

Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707

posted

Your doc is correct in that co-infection testing is just as notoriously inaccurate as is testing for Bb.

Sometimes, it takes several tries before anything shows up...so one should always treat based on symptoms, clinical picture, risk of exposure and reactions to meds... followed by positive testing if any.

That doesn't mean you don't even want to try testing IF there is a strong possibility that there is something lurking that doesn't quite add up.

Also, a short course of ABX will allow for more positives at times, as will knocking down one infection allow the others to take center stage in serology.

It makes sense then, to go after the big boys first...Bb, Babs, Bart...if you are exhibiting symptoms for those...then, if you are still struggling...to keep digging to find other hidden causes.

I became infected first in CO, so I suppose that could be considered midwest. [Smile]

Posts: 7052 | From Colorado | Registered: Mar 2003 | IP: Logged |

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