It detects any free floating antibodies in the blood serum sample when they bind to pieces of Lyme bacteria. Agents are added to the sample and if they produce specific colors the test is considered positive. The IFA test measures immunoglobulin antibodies. The blood serum is placed on a slide containing dead Bb bacteria .
Antibodies then bind to the bacteria.
Chemicals are added to the sample it is then placed under a florescent light. A green color will appear if the antibodies bind to the bacteria and indicate a positive test. The Western Blot test begins by separating a strand of Bb bacteria and placing it on a special slide which is subjected to an electrical charge. This causes the Bb bacteria to separate by weight. A thin slide is placed over the top of the Bb sample and the blood serum is added.