Lyme disease IgM antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for IgM antibodies against Borrelia, the bacteria that cause Lyme disease, which is spread by tick bites. Doctors order it when someone has symptoms that may be early Lyme disease, such as a spreading rash, fever or joint pain after possible tick exposure.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1A staff member may ask about tick bites, travel and when symptoms started
- 2Your arm is cleaned and a needle is placed in a vein
- 3Blood is collected into a tube
- 4A plaster is put on and you can leave
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result often needs a confirmatory test and must be read with your symptoms, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive IgM result can suggest a recent Lyme infection, but false positives can happen with other infections or autoimmune conditions. A negative result early on can be seen because antibodies take a few weeks to appear.
Who usually has this test
People with a spreading rash, fever, joint pain or facial weakness after a possible tick bite, usually after time in areas where Lyme disease is found.
Risks and aftercare
There is no special aftercare beyond keeping the plaster on for a short while.
Names and options
Also called: Lyme IgM, Borrelia antibody
Listed by the hospital as
- LYME ANTIBODY IGM, SERUM
Questions about this test
How long after a tick bite does the Lyme IgM test turn positive?
IgM antibodies usually take a few weeks to appear after infection. A test done too soon may be negative even if you are infected, so your doctor may repeat it or treat based on symptoms such as the typical rash.
Is Lyme disease common in India?
Lyme disease is uncommon in India compared with some other countries, though cases have been reported. Doctors usually consider it when symptoms fit and there is a possible tick exposure, including during travel.
Why does a positive Lyme test need another test?
Screening antibody tests can sometimes react to other infections or immune conditions. A second, more specific test is often used to confirm the result before a diagnosis is made.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.