I contacted a LLMD with a few questions before I decide to book an appt.
They said they use Igenex lab & test is $345.00. I asked if they check for co-infections, but they said, "not usually." Is this correct or will I be safe to go with this LLMD?
Thanks, Jen
Posted by ping (Member # 6974) on :
Unfortunately, Igenex hasn't developed tests for co-infections yet; wish they would, but it costs lots of $$$$$.
Yes, go and get Igenex tested (WB test, right?). The LLMD can run other test for co-infections, but they're not overly accurate. You might just want to have Igenex and a full blood workup to begin with if you're strapped for cash like the rest of us.
Suggest you take it one step at a time and the step you're now taking is a really good one.
ping "We are more than containers for Lyme"
Posted by TF (Member # 14183) on :
Igenex tests for coinfections also. See it on their website:
Five years ago, my lyme doc had my blood tested by Igenex for babesiosis and bartonella. I was positive for both. Cost back then for lyme, and the 2 coinfections was $600.
Maybe ping had something else in mind.
You need tested for coinfections also. This really is an essential. So, I don't like the sound of that answer.
Posted by Leelee (Member # 19112) on :
Hi Jen,
I am a little confused. Do you mean Igenex doesn't test for co-infections or the LLMD you contacted doesn't test for co-infections?
Igenex tested me for Lyme and co-infections. The same was true for my niece.
In addition, I was tested for Bartonella with Fry Labs.
Either way, a good LLMD would test for co-infections using Igenex, Fry or maybe Clongen Labs for co-infections.
I can't remember exactly how much I paid for my labs at Igenex, but it was around $950 b/c I was tested for so many things.
Posted by bettyg (Member # 6147) on :
if your llmd does NOT do co-infection testing, i'd go elsewhere as normally you have MORE THAN LYME DISEASE .... my NON-medical opinion.
go to top of medical for TREEPATROL'S NEWBIE LINKS ARCHIVE, etc.
go to the LAST page of replies... go upward from there, but i posted the MOST CURRENT $$$ AND WHAT THE TESTS WERE FOR .... 2 entire pages!!
yes, they have lyme..western blot igm & igg for $200 PREPAY unless you are on medicare then FREE!
CO-INFECTiONS are around $1,000 thru igenex
fry labs co-infections are cheapter.
Posted by ping (Member # 6974) on :
Jen and others,
I stand completely corrected. Igenex DOES test for co-infections, with the exception (at the time of my testing) of Toxoplasmosis. If they have a test for Toxo now, I'd really like to know.
Yes, Jen. Your LLMD should test for co-infections, but if you already have an appt., get the Lyme test, make another appt now with another LLMD (now while your waiting for your present appt.), get the Igenex for Lyme and take it to an LLMD who will handle for Lyme AND co-infects.
The reason you want to do it this way is that if you wait and reschedule with another LLMD, you could lose months just finding out if you have Lyme. TBD's love it when we take our time, as they grow stronger, going deeper and deeper into tissues.