Understanding Lab Tests for Neurological Complications of Lyme Disease
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Neurological complications of Lyme disease, also known as Lyme neuroborreliosis, can develop when the Lyme disease bacteria (Borrelia burgdorferi) spreads to the nervous system. These complications can manifest as facial palsy, peripheral neuropathy, meningitis, or inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. While neurological symptoms are assessed through clinical examination and sometimes imaging, blood testing plays a crucial role in confirming the underlying Lyme disease infection that causes these complications.
Recommended Test
Lyme Disease Antibody with Reflex to Antibodies IGG & IGM Blot
This comprehensive test is essential for confirming Lyme disease infection in patients presenting with neurological symptoms. It uses a two-tiered approach that first screens for Lyme antibodies, then automatically performs more specific Western blot testing if positive. This helps identify the Lyme disease infection that can lead to serious neurological complications including facial palsy, neuropathy, and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.
2907 reviews
The Role of Blood Testing in Lyme Neuroborreliosis
Blood tests cannot directly diagnose neurological damage itself, but they are fundamental for identifying the Lyme disease infection that triggers these serious complications. Testing measures the body's immune response to the Lyme bacteria, helping healthcare providers confirm whether neurological symptoms are related to Lyme disease and guide appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Understanding Lyme Disease Neurological Complications
When Lyme disease bacteria invade the nervous system, they can cause inflammation that affects both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Early neurological signs may include facial nerve paralysis (Bell's palsy), while more advanced cases can involve severe headaches, neck stiffness, cognitive difficulties, and numbness or tingling in the extremities. Prompt identification and treatment of the underlying infection is essential to prevent permanent neurological damage.
When to Consider Testing
Testing should be considered when neurological symptoms develop in individuals with a history of tick exposure, especially in Lyme-endemic areas. Symptoms such as unexplained facial paralysis, severe headaches with neck stiffness, cognitive changes, or peripheral neuropathy warrant evaluation for possible Lyme neuroborreliosis, particularly during warmer months when tick activity is highest.
Important Considerations
Early detection and treatment of Lyme disease can prevent the development of serious neurological complications. However, testing may not be positive in very early stages of infection. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of suspected Lyme disease or neurological symptoms.
