41st band

Hello,

I tested positive for Lyme, but only for the 41st band.  I was told by several doctors that this means nothing, that it was long ago.  I was never treated for Lyme.  I have felt like crap, on and off for many years.  I have been told I have Fibromyalgia and at one point, Epstein Barr.  Couold this be affectig me and should I continue to push for further testing?

Thank you!!

Hi Johnfio!
Welcome to our community! I'm so glad you found us.

If you haven't ​yet​, it would be helpful for you to start with reading through the thread at the top of the forum titled,"New to Lyme?...Start here!!", as it is packed full of important information, symptom lists, helpful links and pdf's, how to detox when one has these infections, information on probiotics and much more. And this is another good list of possible detoxing routines: www.tiredoflyme.com/detox-methods.html

I have to agree that Band 41 does not indicate a Lyme infection specifically, even the CDC says that it's a clinical diagnosis (by symptoms) : "Lyme disease is diagnosed based on symptoms, physical findings (e.g., rash), and the possibility of exposure to infected ticks. Laboratory testing is helpful if used correctly and performed with validated methods." www.cdc.gov/lyme/

Band 41 indicates the tail end of the spirochete, the type of bacteria that causes Lyme. There are other spirochete bacteria that can cause other infections like syphilis, Pintas, Yaws, and Bejel. The way we tell the difference is by looking for the Lyme specific bands. And having an IND or a + on one of those bands will mean that you have Lyme.

Not everyone that has Lyme can get a test result that has those Lyme specific bands come back as + or IND because Lyme lowers the immune function, and these tests only look for the antibodies that are produced by our immune system - but if it's not functioning well, like happens with Lyme, then those antibodies aren't going to be produced.

97% of the American people have been exposed to and will have an positive test for EBV. While most don't hardly notice more than flu type symptoms, others can be extremely ill from this virus. It is also one of the viruses that can be carried by ticks.

Fibro is nothing more than a collection of symptoms that they can't find the cause for. Many here have been misdiagnosed with Fibro here, including myself.

I also would agree with Gregkdc in asking what type of test, what lab and if there were any IND results instead of just + or - results? Also, what symptoms have you had that encouraged you to get this test? The answers to those questions will tell us a lot.

Western Blot

Welcome to our community, trompeloy!

You're not the first person to be told to see a Psychiatrist. It is a common issue - we are sick but are told were just depressed and need medication.
It's ridiculous.

Since you are new here - you might want to take a look at the thread at the top of the page titled: "New to Lyme?...Start here!" It's full of great information.

I'm glad you posted and hope you keep coming back here to read, post, offer support, get support,.and ask questions you might have.

The "new to lyme" is good to read through even if you've had lyme and have been treating it...there might be something in there that you find informative.

I'm glad you have been getting support for the past year...that's what we're here for.
But, it's nice you have decided to officially become part of our community.

For myself - this his been a life-saver...I don't know if I'd be diagnosed if I hadn't become a member and asked some questions.

If you are looking for a new LLMD - we can help with that.

There are some members who are doing self-directed treatment because there is no other way - as in some countries there aren't Lyme Literate Dr.'s. Also, there are members who can't afford the LLMD's appointments and antibiotics...who have no other choice but to self-direct their treatment and go the herbal route.

No IND.

Exactly. I swear I have every symptom that aligns with either Lyme or Fibro. Still have not found a LLMD. My primary AND Neurologist is sending back to the Rheumatologist. Same one I went to years ago who told me he does not BELIEVE in Fibro, that it is most likely sleep apnea. I never went back to him. I told them this and still, they want me to see him.

New York and I guess Manhattan. Something on Long Island would be easier, but I don't think they exist :)