Would somebody please explain the difference of IGG v IGM to me? I can't understand it! I heard that IGG is just antibodies present in your blood and IGM signifies a current infection. Is this all right? Thank you!
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
True for most infections, but not lyme. You can have an active infection and be igg positive. That was how I tested and my infection at the time was very active. My LLMD diagnosed and treated me for Lyme.
Both igg and igm are antibody tests. All either one shows is exposure. Lyme is a clinical diagnosis based on symtoms.
Posted by susank (Member # 22150) on :
Question on this subject and cross-reactivity possibilities.
The IGM and the IGG it converts to are absolutely the same pathogen?
I sometimes wonder why the IGM does not show up as IGG on the LD western blot - after many years. Because maybe they don't match?
For LD - IGM band 18 can cross-react?
Maybe the reaction on IGM 18 does not "pass the test" to be designated as a LD/BB antibody for IGG?
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
"With most infections, your immune system first forms IgM antibodies, then in about 2 to 4 weeks, you see IgG antibodies. In some infections, IgG antibodies may be detectable for years.
Because Borrelia burgdorferi is a chronic persistent infection that may last for decades, you would think patients with chronic symptoms would have positive IgG Western blots.
But actually, more IgM blots are positive in chronic borreliosis than IgG. Every time Borrelia burgdorferi reproduces itself, it may stimulate the immune system to form new IgM antibodies.
Some patients have both IgG and IgM blots positive. But if either the IgG or IgM blot is positive, overall it is a positive result.
Response to antibiotics is the same if either is positive, or both. Some antibodies against the borrelia are given more significance if they are IgG versus IgM, or vice versa." --Dr C of MO