Borrelia burgdorferi DNA, Real-Time PCR Test
This real-time PCR test measures amplification of Borrelia burgdorferi genomic DNA, which can support evaluation of Lyme disease. It can be run on whole blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or synovial fluid.
About this test
Borrelia burgdorferi is the bacterium associated with Lyme disease. This test measures the presence of its genomic DNA through real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, in whole blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or synovial fluid.
A negative result does not rule out infection, and additional testing such as serology may be appropriate. Because of this, a clinician reads the result together with symptoms, exposure history, and other testing rather than treating a single PCR result as a complete answer.
Test details
| Quest code | 39209 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction |
| Sample type | 3 mL whole blood; 3 mL CSF or synovial fluid |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
Reference range
Not detected
Reference ranges are general guidance. The range printed on your own laboratory report is the one that applies to your result.
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports whether Borrelia burgdorferi genomic DNA is detected through amplification in the specimen provided. Quest also lists this test under the aliases Lyme and Tick borne, which refer to the same measurement.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
It measures the presence of Borrelia burgdorferi genomic DNA through real-time PCR amplification, in whole blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or synovial fluid.
How is the sample collected?
The specimen is 3 mL of whole blood, or 3 mL of cerebrospinal fluid or synovial fluid, depending on what the ordering clinician specifies.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Does a negative result rule out Lyme disease?
No. A negative result does not rule out infection, and additional testing such as serology may be appropriate.
Is this test known by other names?
Yes. Quest also lists it under the aliases Lyme and Tick borne, which refer to the same test.
What does a Borrelia burgdorferi DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR, Miscellaneous test cost without insurance?
$795. Celio Health's price is a flat cash price and insurance is never billed: the required physician's order is included.