Test Code BMIYC Borrelia miyamotoi Detection PCR, Spinal Fluid
Method Name
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Specimen Type
CSFSpecimen Required
Container/Tube: Sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions: Submit aliquot from collection vial 2.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
CSF | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days |
Frozen | 7 days |
Reject Due To
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.Clinical Information
Borrelia miyamotoi is a spirochetal bacterium. It is closely related to the Borrelia species that cause tick-borne relapsing fever (TBRF) and is more distantly related to the Borrelia species that cause Lyme disease. This organism causes a febrile illness like TBRF, with body and join pain, fatigue, and, rarely, rash, and has been detected in Ixodes scapularis and Ixodes pacificus ticks. These ticks are also the vectors for Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis.
The preferred method for detecting B miyamotoi is real-time polymerase chain reaction. Less sensitive and specific methods for detecting B miyamotoi and agents of TBRF include identification of spirochetes in peripheral blood films, cerebrospinal fluid preparations, and serologic testing. This assay does not detect the Borrelia species that cause Lyme disease.
Reference Values
Negative
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Saturday
Report Available
Same day/1 to 4 daysPerforming Laboratory

CPT Code Information
87478
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.
Testing Algorithm
For more information see Acute Tick-Borne Disease Testing Algorithm