What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing worry after a tick bite and want to know whether the tick was carrying Borrelia bacteria, the germ that causes Lyme disease and relapsing fever. Instead of testing your own blood, this test analyzes the tick itself to check if it was infected. It's a helpful way to gauge your risk early, especially if you haven't developed any symptoms yet but want to be proactive.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account as either Borrelia DNA detected or not detected, with a plain-language explanation of what that means for you. If Borrelia DNA is found in the tick, watch closely for symptoms like a bull's-eye rash, fever, or joint pain over the next several weeks and seek medical care right away if they appear. A downloadable lab report is available in your account for your records, and if you send in more ticks in the future, you can track results over time using the trends feature.

What's included in this test?

This test uses real-time PCR to detect Borrelia species DNA — the bacteria responsible for both Lyme disease and relapsing fever — directly in a tick sample. Because it looks directly for the bacteria's genetic material, it can pick up an infection in the tick even before your body would show any signs of exposure. This gives you an early heads-up so you can watch for symptoms and act quickly if needed.

How can I naturally support my recovery if a tick bite is confirmed infected?

While there's no natural substitute for prompt medical attention if you develop symptoms, you can support your body by staying well hydrated, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and getting good sleep to help your immune system function well. Keep the bite area clean and avoid scratching it to reduce the chance of skin irritation or secondary infection. Gentle movement and stress reduction can also help your body cope while you monitor for symptoms.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of the lab receiving your tick sample. You'll get a notification once your report is available in your account, so you don't need to keep checking manually. If you're concerned about symptoms developing before your results are back, don't wait for the report — seek medical care if you notice a rash, fever, or flu-like symptoms.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone who was bitten by a tick, or who removed a tick from themselves, a family member, or a pet, is a good candidate for this test. It's especially useful for people in areas where Lyme disease or relapsing fever are common, or for those who want peace of mind before symptoms have a chance to develop. Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and pet owners who frequently encounter ticks may also want to test bites as a precaution.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

If you've noticed a bull's-eye shaped rash, unexplained fever, chills, headache, muscle or joint pain, or fatigue after being outdoors, testing the tick that bit you can help clarify the cause. Alternating cycles of fever lasting a few days followed by symptom-free periods can also point toward a tick-borne relapsing fever. Testing the tick directly can give you answers faster than waiting to see if symptoms develop in yourself.

What is Borrelia and why does it matter?

Borrelia is a type of spiral-shaped bacteria spread by tick bites that can cause Lyme disease or relapsing fever in people. It matters because early detection and action can help you avoid more serious complications like joint pain, heart problems, or nervous system issues that can develop if an infection goes unnoticed. Knowing whether the tick that bit you was carrying this bacteria helps you decide how closely to monitor your health afterward.

What does a positive (detected) result mean?

A positive result means the tick that bit you was carrying Borrelia DNA, so there's a real chance the bacteria could have been passed to you during the bite. This doesn't automatically mean you're infected, but it means you should watch closely for symptoms like a rash, fever, or joint pain over the coming weeks. If any of these symptoms appear, seek medical care promptly so you can get properly evaluated.

What should I do if my tick tests positive but I feel fine?

Feeling fine now is a good sign, but Borrelia symptoms can take days to weeks to show up, so keep monitoring yourself during that window. Take a photo of the bite site and jot down the date so you have a reference if a rash or other symptoms appear later. If you notice any new symptoms, don't wait it out — seek medical care so you can be evaluated promptly.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Tick Borrelia DNA Test - Lyme Disease Screening

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Tick Borrelia DNA Test — Lyme Disease Screening

Borrelia species DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR, Tick

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient