Question

The ELISA test isn't accurate, so what test should be done to confirm that it is in fact Lyme?

1) Western Blot test
2) PCR test
3) Blood culture test
4) X-ray test

Answer 1

If the initial EIA test for Lyme disease is indeterminate or positive, a Western Blot test should be performed as a confirmatory step. It provides detailed information to differentiate Lyme from other diseases, supporting the diagnosis when combined with clinical symptoms and potential exposure history. Antibiotics are prescribed when Lyme disease is confirmed.

Step-by-step explanation:

To confirm a diagnosis of Lyme disease if the initial enzyme immunoassay (EIA) test is indeterminate or positive, a Western Blot test should be performed as a second step according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. The Western Blot test provides more detailed information and can differentiate between Lyme disease and other conditions that might cause a false positive EIA result. The diagnosis of Lyme disease is further supported by clinical symptoms and a history of potential exposure in areas where Lyme-infected ticks are prevalent. In cases like Ximena's, where the Western Blot test confirms the presence of anti-bacterial antibodies and there is a high probability of the disease, an antibiotic treatment is typically prescribed.