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Should I See an LLMD or Order The Tests From Igenex?

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Posted 5/9/2011 12:21 PM (GMT 0)
So I know most people get a clinical diagnostic because of the erroneous tests but I am in Canada and my GP has dismissed Lymes since my ELISA came back negative. I was speaking with a retired LLMD who said my symptoms are suspicious of Lymes and recommended that I have the tests done through the Igenex lab. I could travel to the US, however that would be much more expensive than to just order the tests from Igenex and have my naturopath do the blood work.

I'm confused on one point. Do you have a better chance of getting a positive test the longer you have had lymes or is it the longer you have had it the less likely you are to get a positive test.

The LLMD I was speaking with recommended that I get the following tests done:

C6 ELISA
Rocky Mountain Fever
Ehrlichiosis
Babesiosis
Bartonella
663 Babesia PCR Panel
200 Antibody IgG & IgM for Babesia microti
188
189

I'm not sure if some of the numbered tests I provided at the bottom of the list represent the names that I have at the top of the list. Perhaps someone could clarify for me and make any other suggestions.

Thanks a lot.
Posted 5/9/2011 3:49 PM (GMT 0)
I saw a regular doctor to get my testing done.  My regular primary doctor suspected I had Lyme and sent me to get a Western Blot Test.  Of course finding an LLMD would be a better option because they understand the test more and will begin proper treatment if the test is positive.  But my regular doc did the test on me as well.  Of course she would only treat me with a few weeks and I had to go and find an LLMD. 

Even though some doctors require a certian amount of bands, you can always ask for a copy of your lab results.  A doctor may tell you that your test results are negative, and dismiss the entire diagnosis because only four bands are present.  Other doctor would say that is a positive result, but they do not tell you how many bands are present so thats why it's a good idea to ask for a copy.  Also if you do have any positive bands, you can look online or on this site at the descriptions of each band.  Most of them are specific for Lyme, even though doctors will tell you different.

Hope this helps!

Posted 5/10/2011 2:21 AM (GMT 0)
If I were you, I'd get the testing done through your Naturopath. Then you can proceed depending on the results.

Usually, the longer a person has Lyme, the less likely they are to have a CDC-positive result. However, keep in mind the criteria for a positive test are intended only for surveillance purposes, and also, a CDC-negative test does not rule out Lyme. Negative test results with even one positive band is considered significant by most who understand Chronic Lyme, and one should consult with an LLMD or LLND no matter what the results are for proper test inerpretation, diagnosis, and treatment.

On the specific IGeneX tests, #188 & 189 are the Western Blot IgM & IgG for Lyme. These tests and also the other recommended tests can be found listed here: http://igenex.com/files/PATIENT_TEST_REQUEST_FORM.pdf


Take care,

Posted 5/10/2011 1:07 PM (GMT 0)
Regarding Igenex, if one can afford it or their Insurance will pay I believe it is the way to go. I was tested using local lab when I first started having symptems 14+ years ago, it was negative and Lyme was dismissed while I kept getting worse.

After much doctor searching "09 I found Dr in Jax, Fl who tested me using Elisa and Western Blot because I had so many symptoms....1 band (41) on WB was positive.

Oct./2010 I asked another Dr (who also doesn't treat Lyme) to be tested at Igenex and WB came back with multiple bands positive...other Lyme tests were negative. Tested for Bart and Babesia and I have antibodies for Babesia.

I have medicare and gave that info plus credit card.....as of this date the charges have not been added to my CC so hoping medicare is paying for the tests.

I am treating myself with coil machine, PE-1 light therapy, homeopathics and herbs.with some improvement but have a long ways to go.

edited to ad: PS: as for the Elisa, I believe it is a waste of money......
Posted 5/11/2011 4:41 PM (GMT 0)
I would agree with Razzle, getting the right treatment is far more important than getting a positive test result. Go for the Naturopath, get any testing that they are willing to do and get your treatment started...the longer you wait on treatment the harder it is to rid the body of this insidious disease!!
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