LymeNet Flash: Lumbar Puncture

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»	LymeNet Flash » Questions and Discussion » Medical Questions » Lumbar Puncture

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Author

Topic: Lumbar Puncture

pdavis
Member
Member # 14509

posted

Has anyone ever had a lumbar puncture performed to

support their disagnosis of lyme ? If so what was

your experience and results.

Thanks !

Posts: 32 | From NC | Registered: Jan 2008 | IP: Logged |

dmc
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 5102

posted

Hurts like heck...not good for diagnosing lyme... I will NEVER get one again unless I'm in a coma. Just my opinion.

Posts: 2675 | From ct, usa | Registered: Jan 2004 | IP: Logged |

Lymetoo
Moderator
Member # 743

posted

NO! Don't waste money and spinal fluid!!

You also put yourself at risk of infection... all for a test that is about 20% accurate in dxing Lyme.

I would not do it unless my life was in immediate danger...or as dmc said, if I was in a coma.

spinal tap nightmare:

http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=047324

--------------------
--Lymetutu--
Opinions, not medical advice!

Posts: 96239 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001 | IP: Logged |

cbb
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 788

posted

I agree with the reasons given.
Also, few in insurance or the medical community know how UNreliable test results are.

If you have a negative Lyme result from the spinal tap, it will be in your medical records. There's a chance it could work against your getting a diagnosis and treatment for Lyme.

I recommend spending that money on tests from labs that specialize in Tick-Borne Diseases (TBDs).
You have a better chance of a more reliable result.

Posts: 4638 | From South Carolina | Registered: Mar 2001 | IP: Logged |

hcconn22
LymeNet Contributor
Member # 5263

posted

A lumbar puncture is not a good test for Lyme. Very poor outcomes and painful.

A PCR blood test which tests for the DNA of Lyme antibodies in your blood is a much better and accurate test. Igenex is one of the best at this.

Most doctors who do lumbar punctures--

1) Are not experienced in Dx and treatment of Lyme

and

2) Test is done to DENY treatment and coverage as most test negative.

Lyme is a spirochete and does not only live in your spinal fluid. It can be in your joints, tendons, brain, heart and or other vital organs.

I would opt out and find a LLMD or another Dr.

Lyme is a CLINICAL DX and not a blood test.

Take care,

--------------------
Positive 10 bands WB IGG & IGM
+ Babesia + Bartonolla and NOW RMSF 3/5/09 all at Quest

And still positive ELISA and WB two years after IV treatment
http://www.lymefriends.org/profile/blake

Posts: 607 | From Tick Town, Connecticut | Registered: Feb 2004 | IP: Logged |

Lymetoo
Moderator
Member # 743

posted

Posts: 96239 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001 | IP: Logged |

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