The Importance of Testing for Multiple Lyme Disease Species
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Time to read 2 min
Lyme disease tests don't detect all species of the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, Borrelia, because they are only targeted to specific species and strains. This can lead to false negative results, which can be dangerous and costly. For example, the CDC's recommended two-tier testing system, which includes the ELISA test, can produce false negatives in about 50% of cases.
Many Lyme disease tests detect only one species, B. burgdorferi B31, resulting in many patients going undetected. B. burgdorferi B31 is named after the founder of Lyme disease, Willy Burgdorfer, and is the most common strain. However, it is only one of roughly 20 species that can cause disease in humans.
Some of the species of Lyme disease recently discovered worldwide include:
B. japonica – Discovered 1994
B. andersonii – Discovered 1995
B. lusitaniae – Discovered 1997
B. bissettii – Discovered 1998
B. spielmanii – Discovered 2006
B. californiensis – Discovered 2007
B. mayonii – Discovered 2016
The Importance of Testing for Multiple Lyme Disease Species
Testing for multiple species of Lyme disease is important for several reasons:
Diagnostic Accuracy: Different species of Lyme-causing bacteria may predominate in different geographical regions. Testing for multiple species ensures that the diagnostic process is comprehensive and accurate, especially in areas where multiple species are prevalent.
Cross-Reactivity: Some diagnostic tests may cross-react with related bacteria or antigens, leading to false-positive results. By testing for multiple species, healthcare providers can better discern whether a positive result is truly indicative of Lyme disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi or another related species.
Emerging Species: While Borrelia burgdorferi is the most well-known species associated with Lyme disease, other species within the Borrelia genus can also cause similar symptoms. As research progresses, new species may be identified as potential causes of Lyme disease. Testing for multiple species ensures that emerging pathogens are not overlooked.
Treatment Considerations: Different species of Borrelia may respond differently to antibiotic treatments. Identifying the specific species causing the infection can help healthcare providers tailor treatment plans more effectively, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients.
Public Health Surveillance: Understanding the distribution of different Borrelia species is crucial for public health surveillance efforts. Testing for multiple species provides valuable data for tracking the prevalence and geographic spread of Lyme disease and related pathogens, which can inform public health strategies and interventions.
How to Test for Multiple Lyme Disease Species
When choosing a Lyme disease test, it is important look for one that detects antibodies to more than just B. burgdorferi B31. The Acudart Lyme Disease test detects antibodies to nine of the most common Lyme disease species: B. burgdorferi B31, B. burgdorferi 297, B. californiensis, B. mayonii, B. afzelii, B. garinii, B. spielmanii, B. bissettii, and B. valaisiana. This results in a test sensitivity that is nearly double that of the standard two-tier testing protocol recommended by the CDC.
