Ordering the Tick Borne Relapsing Fever Panel 2
Tick Borne Relapsing Fever Panel 2 helps detect infections caused by Borrelia spirochetes, which are often missed by standard Lyme disease tests. This panel is especially useful for people who have symptoms like recurring fever, chills, muscle aches, and neurological issues after a tick bite. Interestingly, relapsing fever can sometimes cause hearing loss or light sensitivity, which are not always linked to tick-borne infections.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Identify Borrelia infections that may not show up on regular Lyme disease tests
- Pinpoint the cause of recurring fever and flu-like symptoms
- Support your doctor in choosing the right treatment plan
- Reduce the risk of long-term neurological symptoms by catching the infection early
- Track the effectiveness of treatment if you have already started therapy
Who Should Consider Tick Fever and Relapsing Infection Testing
People who have had a tick bite and now experience unexplained symptoms like brain fog, joint pain, or sleep disturbances may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has been feeling tired, dizzy, and forgetful for weeks after a camping trip might find answers through this panel.
Ordering this test may also be helpful if you:
- Have a rash that comes and goes after being in tick-prone areas
- Experience heart palpitations or swollen lymph nodes with no clear cause
- Notice flu-like symptoms that return after short periods of feeling better
- Develop eye pain or light sensitivity following outdoor activities
- Have unexplained hearing loss after a tick bite, which is less commonly recognized as a symptom of relapsing fever
Testing for tick-borne relapsing fever can help confirm or rule out a specific infection, allowing for targeted treatment and monitoring. Delaying this test may allow the infection to progress, making symptoms harder to manage and possibly leading to more complex neurological problems.
Preparing for Borrelia and Spirochete Detection Lab Work
Fasting is not required before this test, so you can eat and drink as usual. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Tick Borne Relapsing Fever Panel 2
| Test Name | Reference Range | What the Test Measures | Low and High Levels of Tick Borne Relapsing Fever Panel 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| TBRF PCR – serum | Negative | This test looks for Borrelia DNA in the blood using PCR, which can detect active infection even when antibodies are not present. It is especially useful in early or ongoing infections. |
High levels mean Borrelia DNA is present, showing an active infection.
Low levels mean no Borrelia DNA was found, suggesting no current infection. |
| TBRF PCR with blood | Negative | This test uses a blood sample to check for Borrelia spirochete DNA, helping to confirm or rule out relapsing fever caused by tick bites. It is sensitive to both early and late-stage infections. |
High levels mean Borrelia spirochete DNA is detected, indicating an active infection.
Low levels mean no Borrelia spirochete DNA is found, indicating no active infection. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods and standards.
Tick Borne Relapsing Fever Panel 2 FAQ
Is there Tick Borne Relapsing Fever Panel 2 testing near me?
This is a test kit that you can use locally, and you can find a draw location using the link at the top of the page. Since symptoms like recurring fever and neurological changes can make travel difficult, having a nearby collection site makes it easier to get tested quickly and comfortably.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, you can also use our one-on-one test results review service with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but draw fees may apply at your collection site. Ordering this test can help you find the cause of symptoms like recurring fever or brain fog, so you can start the right treatment sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended if symptoms return or after completing treatment, often within 4-6 weeks, to check if the infection has cleared. Repeating the test can help your doctor track your progress and adjust your care if needed.
How accurate is the test?
This panel uses PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect Borrelia DNA, with a sensitivity of 95% and specificity of 98%, making it highly effective for finding active infections. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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