Name of the Procedure:

Antibody; Borrelia (relapsing fever)

• Common names: Borrelia antibody test
• Technical/medical terms: Borrelia hermsii antibody test, Serologic test for relapsing fever

Summary

The antibody test for Borrelia is a blood test that detects antibodies against the bacteria Borrelia, which causes relapsing fever. The presence of these antibodies helps confirm a diagnosis of relapsing fever, an infection characterized by recurring episodes of fever.

Purpose

• Medical condition or problem it addresses: This test is used to diagnose relapsing fever, which is an infection caused by Borrelia bacteria.
• Goals or expected outcomes: The primary goal is to detect antibodies specific to Borrelia, confirming the presence of the infection. Early diagnosis can lead to prompt treatment, reducing the severity and frequency of fever episodes.

Indications

• Specific symptoms: Recurrent episodes of fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and joint pain.
• Patient criteria: Individuals who have been in regions where tick exposure is common or have symptoms consistent with relapsing fever.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions: Generally, no special preparation is needed. Patients can eat and drink normally before the test.
• Diagnostic tests or assessments: A thorough medical history and physical examination may be conducted to evaluate symptoms suggesting relapsing fever.

Procedure Description

1. Blood sample collection:
   • A healthcare provider will clean the puncture site on the patient’s arm.
2. A needle is inserted into a vein, and a blood sample is drawn into a vial.
3. The sample is sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed for the presence of Borrelia-specific antibodies.

• Tools, equipment, or technology used: Sterile needle, vial, and laboratory equipment for antibody detection.
• Anesthesia or sedation: Not applicable; the procedure is minimally invasive and typically painless.

Duration

The blood draw itself takes only a few minutes. Laboratory analysis can take several days to a week.

Setting

• Performed in a medical laboratory, outpatient clinic, or hospital phlebotomy department.

Personnel

• Healthcare professionals involved: Phlebotomist for the blood draw and laboratory technicians for the antibody analysis.

Risks and Complications

• Common: Minor discomfort or bruising at the puncture site.
• Rare: Infection, excessive bleeding, or fainting.

Benefits

• Expected benefits: Accurate diagnosis of relapsing fever allows for appropriate antibiotic treatment, reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms.
• How soon they might be realized: Diagnosis and subsequent treatment can lead to symptom relief within a few days.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care: Minimal care needed; patients can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
• Expected recovery time: Immediate; no recovery time required.
• Follow-up appointments: May be required to discuss test results and the next steps in treatment.

Alternatives

• Other treatment options: Clinical diagnosis based on symptoms and exposure history, other serologic tests, or direct microscopic examination of blood smears.
• Pros and cons of alternatives: Clinical diagnosis can be less accurate; direct microscopy requires skilled examination and may not be as sensitive as serology.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Patients may feel a slight pinch or sting when the needle is inserted.
• After the procedure: Possible minor discomfort or bruising at the puncture site. Comfort measures include applying a cold compress to the site if needed.
• Pain management: Generally unnecessary; any discomfort is usually mild and short-lived.