Lyme Disease Test: Why It Is Done
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Why It Is Done
A Lyme disease test is done to diagnose Lyme disease in people who have symptoms of Lyme disease. Symptoms may include:
- An expanding red rash with a pale center. This is sometimes called a "bull's-eye" rash.
- Extreme tiredness.
- Fever.
- Headache and stiff neck.
- Muscle and joint pain.
Symptoms of chronic Lyme disease infection include joint pain, stiffness, and problems with the heart, brain, or nerves.
Testing is most accurate when you have risk factors for Lyme disease or symptoms of the disease.
| Last updated: | September 03, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Christine Hahn, MD - Epidemiology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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