Babesia PCR

Ordering the Babesia PCR

Babesia PCR is a molecular test that detects the genetic material of Babesia parasites in the blood, helping to identify active infections early. This test is especially useful for people who have symptoms that overlap with other tick-borne illnesses, as Babesia can be missed by standard blood smears or antibody tests. Interestingly, Babesia PCR can detect the parasite even before the body produces antibodies, making it valuable for those in the early stages of infection or with weakened immune systems.

Ordering Babesia PCR provides several specific benefits:

• Detects Babesia microti and Babesia duncani DNA directly in the blood.
• Helps distinguish Babesia infection from other causes of anemia or fever.
• Supports diagnosis in people with recent tick exposure and unexplained symptoms.
• Useful for monitoring treatment response in confirmed Babesia cases.
• Reduces the risk of misdiagnosis when symptoms are non-specific or overlap with Lyme disease.

Who Should Consider Babesia Screening

People who have experienced a recent tick bite and now feel unusually tired, have chills, or notice yellowing of the skin may benefit from Babesia screening. For example, someone who enjoys hiking in wooded areas and later develops fever, muscle aches, and dark urine might not realize these symptoms could be linked to a tick-borne infection.

Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:

• Unexplained anemia with no clear cause after routine blood work.
• Persistent night sweats and fatigue following outdoor activities in tick-prone regions.
• History of Lyme disease with new or worsening symptoms.
• Travel to areas where Babesia is more common, such as the Northeast or upper Midwest United States.
• Receiving a blood transfusion and later developing fever and jaundice, as Babesia can be transmitted through blood products.

Testing for Babesia can help clarify the cause of symptoms like anemia, fever, or confusion, and guide targeted treatment. Delaying this test may allow the infection to progress, making it harder to treat and increasing the risk of complications.

Preparing for Babesia PCR

Fasting is not required before this test, so you can eat and drink as usual. Always follow any specific instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to ensure the sample is collected correctly and results are as useful as possible.

Labs Included When Ordering Your Babesia PCR

Reference ranges may be updated from time to time based on new research or laboratory standards.

Babesia PCR FAQ

Is there Babesia PCR testing near me?

Babesia PCR is available as a test kit that can be collected at a local draw site—check the draw location link at the top of the page. Since Babesia can cause symptoms like fatigue and anemia, having a nearby collection site makes it easier to get tested quickly and start the right treatment if needed.

How do I interpret the test results?

While your treating physician should always review your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand what your results mean and what steps to take next.

What is the cost of the test?

The price for Babesia PCR includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but draw fees may apply at the collection site. Ordering this test can help you identify a Babesia infection sooner, which may help you recover faster and avoid ongoing symptoms.

How often should I retest?

Retesting is usually recommended if symptoms return or after completing treatment, often within 2-4 weeks, to confirm the infection has cleared. Reordering the test can help track your progress and ensure the parasite is no longer present in your blood.

How accurate is the test?

Babesia PCR uses polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology to detect parasite DNA, with a sensitivity of 95% and specificity of 98%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.