Removal · field guidance

False-positive Lyme ELISA: common sources

Several cross-reacting conditions can produce a positive first-tier ELISA, which is why the second tier exists.

Steps

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01
Other spirochetes (syphilis, leptospirosis, relapsing fever) cross-react.
02
Autoimmune disease (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis) can produce false positives.
03
Recent viral infections (EBV, CMV, varicella) can transiently elevate antibodies.
04
Periodontal disease and oral spirochetes occasionally cross-react.
05
The Western blot or second EIA filters most of these — never report Lyme based on the first tier alone.

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