Test Directory

This test is intended for the qualitative detection of Borrelia DNA. Borrelia are spirochetes and are commonly classified into two categories: those that cause Lyme disease (Lyme borreliosis) and those that cause relapsing fever. This test detects species in both categories.

Borrelia are typically transmitted to humans via the bite of an infected tick, including hard-bodied ticks of the genera Amblyomma and Ixodes and soft-bodied ticks of the genera Ornithodoros.

Diagnosis of Borrelia infections is normally based on clinical findings and serological assays. PCR testing can serve as an adjunct to serology, especially during the early stages of infection before antibodies have developed.

Specimen Type: Deer Tick

Collection Container: Sterile Container with 70% Ethanol

Desired Specimen Volume: Intact Deer Tick

1. Collect a deer tick in a sterile container (screw cap).

1. Add 70% ethanol to the sterile container until the tick is submerged. Screw cap back on and ensure lid is secure.
2. Transport in the original collection container.

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated. 

• Specimens submitted in formalin

 See patient report.

• Borrelia species DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR, Tick
• Lyme Borreliosis, Tick borne