First, consider reviewing this great intro to testing and other details of Lyme Diseases from ILADS (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society)
For many of us thoughts of Lyme occur when realizing they or a loved one has an embedded tick. Ticks need to be carefully removed with tweezers, ensuring the head comes out completely. (No this does not hurt). We then strongly recommend sending the tick off for testing to a service such as Geneticks. Currently, research shows approximately 40% of ticks in Canada are infected with Lyme or other tick-borne infections. It is easier to test the tick than the person. At this point you can also consider joining the Facebook group Lyme OhOh Canada and asking for the “New Bite” checklist -it will provide much more information than we can here.
If after a tick bite you notice a distinctive EM (bullseye rash) you now have Lyme. Unfortunately, the rash can also appear in a variety of forms making it difficult to identify. R esearch says that only approximately 50% of those with Lyme notice this rash. Meaning no rash does not necessarily mean no Lyme.
In Canada, we rely on a test called 2 Tier Elisa. The details of how it is used vary from province to province. In general, the test is positive only approximately 40 – 50% of the time. For this reason, it is recommended that the test be used in conjunction with a clinical diagnosis (what are your symptoms?). So, if the Canadian test is positive, you almost certainly have Lyme, but if it is negative, you still cannot be sure.
There are more accurate tests available outside of Canada, although they are not currently recognized in Canada. If you believe you have Lyme taking one of these tests can be invaluable in deciding what to do. In addition to testing for Lyme you should test for co-infections. In Canada, approximately 80% of those with Lyme will also have co-infections. Having this information will help you and your healthcare practitioner design an effective treatment suitable for your specific needs.
There are several excellent tests available. Below are two that we believe are the most accessible and effective.
1. Immunoblot by IGENIX in California.
This is the first Lyme test to receive full FDA approval in the US. It results in very few false positive and approximately 10% false negatives. You need to ensure you are being tested for co-infections as well as Lyme . Many, but not all blood testing facilities can help with this, so you need to check if yours will facilitate this. Here is the link. You will need a doctor’s signature.
2. Elispot by Armin labs in Austria.
This is also a well-regarded and excellent test. Do not forget to get tested for co-infections here as well. Many, but not all blood testing facilities can help with this, so you need to check if yours will facilitate this. Here is the link. You will need a doctor’s signature..
Please forward any questions and/or comments to – don.graham@canadianlymecoalition.ca