Lyme Evidence Sheet
Reviewed 2026-07-24What happens after my first Lyme test?
Lyme antibody testing is usually interpreted as a two-step process. A positive or equivocal first test is followed by a second test, and the sequence is considered together.
What the evidence says
- CDC describes a two-step antibody testing process for Lyme disease.
- Reporting guidance explains that the first and second test results are interpreted as a sequence.
What this can tell you
- Whether the report describes a complete testing sequence.
- What final interpretation to ask the laboratory or clinician to explain.
What this cannot tell you
- Whether a laboratory result alone explains every symptom.
- Whether one screening line alone is a final diagnosis.
A useful question for your clinician
Was the complete recommended two-step sequence performed, and what is the final interpretation?
Sources (2)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ‘Testing and Diagnosis for Lyme Disease.’ https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/diagnosis-testing/index.html. Accessed July 24, 2026. Open source ↗
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Association of Public Health Laboratories. ‘Suggested Reporting Language, Interpretation and Guidance Regarding Lyme Disease Serologic Test Results.’ 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/media/pdfs/2024/05/Suggested-Reporting-Language-Interpretation-and-Guidance-Regarding-Lyme-Disease-Serologic-Test-Results.pdf. Open source ↗