What serological tests are commonly used for the diagnosis of late Lyme disease?

The correct answer involves serological tests that are critical for diagnosing late Lyme disease, particularly focusing on specific antibodies produced in response to the Borrelia burgdorferi infection.

In late Lyme disease, patients typically develop persistent symptoms that may include arthritis, neurologic issues, or carditis. Serological testing primarily looks for specific antibodies against the pathogen. The ELISA is a first-line screening test that detects both IgM and IgG antibodies. IgM antibodies typically appear early in the infection, while IgG antibodies indicate a more chronic or persistent infection.

Western blot testing is used as a confirmatory test following a positive ELISA result, as it provides additional specificity. It detects multiple proteins associated with the pathogen and distinguishes between early and late infections based on the antibody response patterns. PCR testing can occasionally be employed, particularly in cases where a sample (such as synovial fluid in Lyme arthritis) is available, to detect the genetic material of Borrelia burgdorferi directly, enhancing the diagnostic yield in certain clinical scenarios.

In summary, the combination of IgM, IgG ELISA, Western blot, and PCR testing provides a comprehensive approach to diagnosing late Lyme disease, making this option the most appropriate in the context of ser