Physicians can choose either form for reporting. Both forms ask for the physician name, patient demographic information including Lyme disease vaccination status, date of diagnosis, and onset date as well as information about clinical presentation. In addition, both forms have areas to record the name of the laboratory where testing was done, if applicable. While a diagnosis of Lyme disease is based on clinical signs and symptoms, laboratory testing may also be done. Laboratory confirmation of infection with B. burgdorferi is established when a laboratory isolates the spirochete from tissue or body fluid, detects diagnostic levels of IgM or IgG antibodies to the spirochete in serum or CSF, or detects a significant change in antibody levels in paired acute and convalescent serum samples.
Serological assays remain the most common and practical method.
Since the immune response to spirochetes is relatively slow, serological tests often remain negative for several weeks after exposure. Samples with positive or equivocal results from these tests should be re-tested using a standardized Western blot procedure. The two-step algorithm, as opposed to using a single test, increases the specificity of laboratory testing. MDPH Lyme Disease Educational Materials MDPH has developed a variety of educational materials that are available free of charge and designed to increase the public s awareness of Lyme disease. This document summarizes what Lyme disease is, where it is found, how it is spread, diagnosed, treated and prevented.