Where can you take a tick for analysis?

Understanding the Importance of Tick Analysis

Why is Tick Analysis Crucial?

Identifying Pathogens

Identifying pathogens in a tick requires submission to a facility equipped for molecular or serological testing. Laboratories that accept ticks for analysis include:

State or regional public‑health laboratories that conduct routine surveillance for tick‑borne diseases.
University or research institute laboratories with expertise in vector biology and pathogen genomics.
Commercial diagnostic companies that offer PCR‑based panels for Borrelia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia and other agents.
Veterinary diagnostic clinics that process samples from companion animals and livestock.
Wildlife management agencies that perform monitoring of ticks collected from natural habitats.

Proper submission demands intact specimens preserved in 70 % ethanol or frozen at –20 °C, a label indicating collection date, geographic coordinates, host species (if known) and a brief questionnaire on symptoms or exposure history. Packaging must comply with biosafety regulations and include a completed chain‑of‑custody form.

Turnaround times vary: public‑health labs typically report results within 7–10 days, research facilities may require 2–3 weeks depending on workload, and commercial services often provide electronic reports in 5–8 days. Results are delivered as a pathogen list with detection method, quantitative values when applicable, and interpretive comments for clinical or epidemiologic use.

Risk Assessment for Human Health

Risk assessment for human health addresses the probability and severity of illness caused by tick‑borne pathogens. Accurate evaluation depends on reliable data from tick specimens collected in environments where human exposure is likely.

Typical sources for obtaining ticks include:

Wooded and grassy areas frequented by the public, such as parks, trails, and recreational fields.
Pasturelands and farms where livestock or companion animals host ticks.
Domestic animal grooming sessions, where ticks are removed from dogs, cats, or livestock.
Surveillance programs run by public health agencies that deploy drag‑sampling or flagging methods.
Research facilities that maintain tick colonies for controlled studies.

Collected specimens must be placed in sealed containers, kept cool, and labeled with location, date, and host information. Preservation in ethanol or frozen storage ensures nucleic acid integrity for downstream testing.

Laboratory analysis employs molecular and immunological techniques. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detects pathogen DNA, enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) identifies specific antigens, and high‑throughput sequencing characterizes microbial communities. Microscopic examination confirms species identification and infection status.

Data derived from these analyses feed into risk models that calculate prevalence rates, geographic spread, and seasonal trends. The resulting metrics guide public‑health advisories, targeted interventions, and resource allocation to mitigate human health threats posed by tick‑borne diseases.

When Should You Seek Tick Analysis?

After a Tick Bite

After a tick attaches to the skin, remove it promptly with fine‑tipped tweezers, grasping close to the mouthparts and pulling straight upward. Clean the bite site with antiseptic and monitor for rash or fever over the next weeks.

If laboratory confirmation of the tick species or pathogen presence is needed, the specimen can be submitted to:

Local health department laboratories that offer tick testing services.
Veterinary or university entomology labs affiliated with a university’s department of vector biology.
Commercial diagnostic companies that accept mailed specimens for DNA‑based pathogen detection.
Primary‑care physicians or dermatology clinics that forward ticks to reference laboratories through established networks.

When sending the tick, place it in a sealed container with a moist cotton ball, label with date of removal and location of bite, and include a brief request for species identification and testing for common agents such as Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Babesia spp. Follow the receiving laboratory’s instructions for shipping temperature and documentation.

If Symptoms Develop

When symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, or fatigue appear after a tick bite, seek medical evaluation promptly. Bring the attached tick, a description of the bite site, and a timeline of symptom onset.

Primary‑care or urgent‑care clinic: Collects the tick, orders initial blood work, and initiates empiric therapy if indicated.
Emergency department: Provides rapid assessment for severe or rapidly progressing symptoms and arranges immediate testing.
State or local public‑health laboratory: Accepts tick specimens for PCR, culture, or serologic analysis of pathogens such as Borrelia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, and Rickettsia.
Commercial tick‑testing services (e.g., TickCheck, University‑affiliated labs): Offer mail‑in kits; require sealed container, label, and accompanying questionnaire.
Veterinary clinic (if the tick was removed from a pet): May forward the specimen to a specialized laboratory for zoonotic pathogen screening.

Laboratories perform molecular detection (PCR) and antibody testing to identify specific agents. Results typically return within 48–72 hours for public‑health labs and 5–7 days for commercial services. Positive identification guides targeted antimicrobial therapy; negative results combined with clinical judgment may still warrant treatment for suspected tick‑borne disease.

After receiving test outcomes, follow the prescribing clinician’s recommendations for medication, duration, and monitoring. Document all findings and maintain communication with the testing facility for any updates or additional inquiries.

Options for Tick Analysis

Medical Facilities

Primary Care Physician

When a tick attaches to a patient, immediate removal and laboratory examination are essential to identify potential pathogens. The first point of contact for such concerns is the primary care physician (PCP), who can initiate the diagnostic process without delay.

A PCP can:

Collect the tick during the office visit and place it in a sealed container for transport.
Order a laboratory test through the clinic’s affiliated diagnostic service, which routinely processes arthropod specimens.
Refer the specimen to a state or local public health laboratory that specializes in vector-borne disease testing.
Provide the patient with instructions for submitting the tick to a commercial testing company if the clinic’s resources are limited.

In all cases, the PCP documents the encounter, records the tick’s species and attachment site, and coordinates follow‑up care based on the test results. This streamlined approach ensures that patients receive timely information about possible infections and appropriate treatment recommendations.

Emergency Room

The emergency department provides immediate care for tick encounters that require medical assessment. Clinicians evaluate attachment site, remove the arthropod with sterile technique, and preserve the specimen for laboratory testing. Laboratory analysis determines the presence of pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma, or Rickettsia species, guiding treatment decisions.

Key capabilities of the emergency room include:

Rapid removal using forceps or specialized tools to minimize tissue damage.
Secure packaging of the tick in a sterile container with appropriate labeling.
Access to hospital‑based or reference laboratories that perform polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or culture assays.
Immediate initiation of empiric antimicrobial therapy when clinical signs suggest infection.
Documentation of patient history, exposure risk, and follow‑up instructions.

Patients may also use urgent‑care clinics or primary‑care offices, but the emergency department ensures 24‑hour availability, on‑site pathology support, and prompt initiation of treatment if systemic illness develops. After removal, clinicians advise observation of the bite site, symptom monitoring, and notification of any rash, fever, or joint pain within the next 30 days.

Public Health Agencies

Local Health Department

Local health departments serve as the primary public‑health agencies authorized to receive ticks for laboratory identification and pathogen testing. Their jurisdiction includes disease surveillance, vector control, and community education, which enables them to process specimens submitted by residents, healthcare providers, and researchers.

To submit a tick, follow these steps:

Call the department’s environmental health or vector‑control unit to confirm acceptance of specimens and obtain a submission form.
Complete the form with details such as collection date, location, host species, and any observed symptoms.
Place the tick in a sealed, labeled container (e.g., a small vial with ethanol or a dry tube) and include the completed form.
Deliver the package in person or via a prepaid courier service as instructed by the department.
Pay any applicable processing fee; many departments waive charges for public‑health investigations.
Expect a turnaround time of 7‑14 days for species identification and basic pathogen screening, with results communicated by email or phone.

Results are recorded in the department’s disease‑tracking system and may trigger follow‑up actions, such as public advisories, targeted tick‑control measures, or referrals to clinical laboratories for advanced testing. Contact information for most local health departments is available on municipal websites or through state‑health‑agency directories.

State Health Department Resources

State health departments operate laboratories that accept tick specimens for identification, pathogen detection, and resistance testing. Each department provides a web portal or phone line for submission instructions, sample handling guidelines, and turnaround times. Laboratories follow standardized protocols, such as PCR for Borrelia, Anaplasma, and Ehrlichia, and microscopy for species confirmation.

Key resources include:

Online submission forms – downloadable templates that list required data (collection date, location, host species) and packaging recommendations.
Dedicated specimen drop‑off locations – designated health clinics, university extension offices, or agricultural service centers where staff receive and log samples.
State vector surveillance programs – coordinated networks that collect ticks from the environment, maintain databases of species distribution, and publish annual risk maps.
Technical assistance hotlines – staffed by entomologists and epidemiologists who answer questions on collection methods, shipping regulations, and result interpretation.
Educational materials – fact sheets, webinars, and training modules that describe tick life cycles, disease transmission, and proper field sampling techniques.

Funding for these services typically derives from state budgets, federal grants, and partnerships with universities. Reports generated by the departments inform public‑health advisories, guide preventive measures, and support research on emerging tick‑borne threats.

Private Laboratories

Specialized Tick Testing Services

Specialized tick testing services provide reliable identification, pathogen detection, and risk assessment for both professionals and the public. Accredited laboratories, university research facilities, and certain veterinary clinics maintain the equipment and expertise required for molecular and morphological analysis. These entities follow standardized protocols to ensure accurate results, which are essential for informing treatment decisions, public‑health interventions, and ecological studies.

Typical venues where a tick specimen can be submitted include:

State or regional public‑health laboratories that offer tick‑borne disease testing under government oversight.
University entomology or microbiology departments equipped with PCR, sequencing, and microscopy facilities.
Veterinary diagnostic centers accredited by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists, often accepting samples from pets and livestock.
Private diagnostic companies specializing in vector‑borne pathogen panels, providing rapid turnaround and online reporting.
Certified wildlife rehabilitation centers that collaborate with research institutions for surveillance programs.

When selecting a service, consider accreditation status, the range of pathogens screened (e.g., Borrelia, Anaplasma, Rickettsia), turnaround time, and cost. Proper specimen handling—placing the tick in a sealed container with a dry medium, labeling with collection date and location, and shipping at ambient temperature—maximizes the likelihood of successful analysis.

Online Platforms for Submission

Online laboratories and data‑processing services accept tick specimens through dedicated web portals. These portals automate sample registration, provide tracking numbers, and integrate with laboratory information systems, ensuring traceability from submission to result delivery.

Typical platforms include:

TickSubmit – secure upload of high‑resolution images and metadata; automatic routing to partner diagnostic labs.
VectorBase Upload – repository for genomic and morphological data; supports batch submissions and links to analysis pipelines.
iPathogen – cloud‑based interface for pathogen detection; offers real‑time progress updates and downloadable reports.
BiosampleHub – multi‑institution portal that accepts physical specimens via courier coordination; includes electronic consent forms and specimen condition logs.

Each service requires a registered account, adherence to data‑format specifications (e.g., CSV for metadata, TIFF for images), and compliance with biosafety regulations. After submission, the platform assigns a unique identifier, notifies the laboratory, and provides an estimated turnaround time. Results are delivered electronically, often accompanied by quality‑control metrics and recommendations for further investigation.

University and Research Institutions

Academic Research Programs

Academic research programs provide structured pathways for obtaining tick specimens suitable for laboratory analysis. Universities maintain entomology or vector‑biology laboratories that collect and preserve ticks from field sites, offering graduate students and postdoctoral researchers access through supervised projects. Government agencies operate national tick‑surveillance initiatives, distributing samples to qualified investigators who submit formal requests and comply with biosafety regulations. Private research institutes partner with wildlife management organizations, delivering curated tick collections to external collaborators under material‑transfer agreements.

Key program types include:

University‑affiliated vector‑biology curricula with dedicated field‑sampling components.
Federal disease‑monitoring centers that archive ticks for pathogen‑screening studies.
International consortiums that coordinate cross‑border specimen exchange and standardize analytical protocols.
Commercial biobanks that store tick colonies for pharmaceutical and diagnostic development.

Participation typically requires a research proposal outlining objectives, ethical clearance, and a qualified supervisor. Upon approval, institutions arrange specimen shipment in compliance with regulated packaging standards. Recipients must document receipt, maintain chain‑of‑custody records, and report analytical outcomes to the originating program, ensuring data integrity and facilitating broader epidemiological insights.

Collaborations with Public Health

Public‑health agencies and research institutions regularly coordinate to obtain tick specimens for diagnostic and surveillance purposes. These partnerships enable systematic collection, standardized testing, and rapid dissemination of findings to inform disease‑prevention strategies.

Typical collection points include:

State and local health department vector‑surveillance units.
University laboratories that operate joint programs with health authorities.
Sentinel clinics and community health centers that receive patient‑derived ticks.
Wildlife rehabilitation centers and veterinary clinics contributing animal‑origin specimens.
Environmental health divisions conducting field sampling in parks, forests, and residential areas.

Agencies supply collection kits, detailed instructions, and electronic forms for metadata entry. Received ticks are processed in accredited laboratories where species identification, pathogen detection, and resistance profiling are performed using molecular assays. Results are entered into shared databases accessible to both public‑health officials and researchers.

The collaborative framework yields consistent data streams, accelerates outbreak detection, and optimizes resource allocation across jurisdictions. By pooling expertise and infrastructure, public‑health partners maintain comprehensive tick‑borne disease surveillance without duplicating efforts.

Preparing a Tick for Analysis

Safe Removal Techniques

Using Tweezers

Collecting a tick with fine‑point tweezers is the standard method for obtaining a specimen suitable for laboratory examination. Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible, apply steady pressure, and pull upward with a smooth motion to avoid crushing the mouthparts. Place the intact specimen in a sealed container with a moist cotton pad and label it with the collection date, location, and host information.

The following facilities accept tick samples for identification, pathogen testing, or research:

Veterinary clinics with diagnostic laboratories
State or regional public‑health laboratories
University entomology departments that run vector‑borne disease programs
Accredited private diagnostic companies specializing in arthropod analysis
Professional pest‑management services that partner with certified labs

Each venue typically requires a brief submission form and may provide guidance on packaging and shipping. Using tweezers correctly ensures the tick remains whole, which maximizes the reliability of subsequent analyses.

Avoiding Crushing the Tick

When a tick is found, preserving its integrity is essential for accurate laboratory identification. Crushing the specimen can destroy diagnostic features such as mouthparts, scutum patterns, and internal organs, rendering results unreliable.

Use fine‑point tweezers or a small, blunt‑ended forceps to grasp the tick close to the skin. Pull straight upward with steady pressure; avoid twisting, which may split the body.
Place the intact tick into a labeled, sealable tube or vial. Preferred containers are 1.5 ml microcentrifuge tubes, sterile plastic tubes, or small vials with screw caps.
Add a modest amount of 70 % ethanol if the analysis will occur within 24 hours; for longer storage, use 95 % ethanol or freeze at –20 °C. Do not submerge the tick in water, as swelling can obscure morphological details.
Record the collection site, date, host species, and any observable life stage. Attach this information to the container or a separate data sheet.

If immediate transport to a diagnostic laboratory is possible, keep the specimen cool (refrigerated, not frozen) and avoid agitation. During shipment, use insulated packaging and a cold pack to maintain temperature stability.

By following these steps, the tick remains intact, enabling precise morphological or molecular analysis without the risk of damage caused by crushing.

Proper Storage Methods

Airtight Container

Collecting a tick for laboratory evaluation requires a container that prevents desiccation and external contamination. An airtight vessel, such as a sealed plastic tube with a screw‑cap liner, maintains humidity and protects DNA integrity during transport.

Suitable collection sites include:

Veterinary clinics where tick removal is performed.
Public health laboratories that accept arthropod specimens.
Community health centers offering vector‑borne disease testing.
Personal residences, provided the container is sealed and labeled correctly.

When preparing the container, remove excess moisture, place the tick intact or in ethanol (if DNA analysis is intended), and close the lid tightly. Label the package with collection date, location, and host information to facilitate accurate diagnosis.

Moistened Cotton Ball (Optional)

When a tick must be submitted for laboratory identification or pathogen testing, the specimen can be taken to a veterinary clinic, a public‑health laboratory, a university entomology department, or a designated field collection point that accepts arthropod samples.

Removal should be performed with fine‑point tweezers, grasping the tick as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight upward. After extraction, the tick may be placed in a sterile container. An optional step is to add a moistened cotton ball to the container; the cotton should be dampened with sterile saline or distilled water, not soaked, to maintain humidity without submerging the tick.

Key points for using a moistened cotton ball:

Use a sterile, individually wrapped cotton ball.
Apply only enough liquid to keep the cotton damp, preventing desiccation.
Limit exposure to a few hours; prolonged moisture can promote bacterial growth.
Ensure the container remains sealed to avoid leakage.

Submitting the tick promptly, with or without the cotton ball, maximizes the likelihood of accurate species identification and reliable detection of any associated pathogens.

Information to Provide

Date and Location of Bite

Recording the exact date and geographical point of a tick bite is essential for accurate laboratory assessment. The date establishes the developmental stage of the tick and aligns it with seasonal pathogen prevalence. The precise location—coordinates, park name, or address—identifies the ecological context, aiding epidemiological tracing and risk evaluation.

When a tick is removed, submit it to one of the following facilities:

State or local public‑health laboratory; they maintain regional surveillance databases and provide free or low‑cost testing.
Veterinary clinic with an accredited diagnostic service; they accept both human and animal specimens and offer rapid results for common tick‑borne agents.
University or research institution entomology department; they conduct comprehensive species identification and pathogen screening, often for academic studies.
Commercial diagnostic company (e.g., Quest Diagnostics, Labcorp); they offer standardized panels for Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other infections, with results delivered electronically.

Before submission, attach a label that includes:

Date of the bite (day‑month‑year).
Exact location (GPS coordinates or detailed address).
Tick stage (larva, nymph, adult) if identifiable.
Any visible symptoms or treatment administered.

Providing this information enables the receiving laboratory to select appropriate molecular assays, interpret results in the context of local disease patterns, and advise clinicians on targeted therapy.

Any Symptoms Experienced

When a tick is found, the first step is to bring the specimen to a facility capable of laboratory identification and pathogen testing. Professional evaluation ensures accurate species determination and detection of bacteria, viruses, or parasites that the tick may carry.

Typical venues for tick analysis include:

Primary‑care clinics or urgent‑care centers equipped with a laboratory liaison.
State or local public‑health laboratories that offer free or low‑cost testing.
University or research institution laboratories specializing in entomology or infectious disease.
Veterinary practices that process animal‑derived ticks and can forward results to human health services.
Commercial diagnostic services that accept mailed specimens with prepaid packaging.

When submitting a tick, provide a complete record of any symptoms experienced since the bite. Relevant clinical information may consist of:

Localized skin reactions (redness, swelling, a bull’s‑eye rash).
Systemic signs such as fever, chills, headache, or muscle aches.
Neurological manifestations (tingling, facial weakness, confusion).
Gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea).

Including this data enables the laboratory to correlate pathogen findings with clinical presentation, improving diagnostic accuracy and guiding appropriate treatment.

What Happens During Tick Analysis?

Laboratory Procedures

DNA Extraction

DNA extraction provides the molecular basis for identifying pathogens carried by ticks. Accurate analysis begins with proper collection sites and proceeds through a defined laboratory workflow.

Ticks are routinely gathered from natural habitats such as woodlands, grasslands, and recreational parks. Veterinary practices collect specimens from companion animals, while agricultural extensions obtain samples from livestock environments. Public‑health surveillance programs retrieve ticks from drag‑sampling stations and citizen‑science submissions.

Facilities capable of processing tick specimens include:

University molecular biology laboratories equipped for high‑throughput extraction.
Government health agencies that operate reference laboratories for vector‑borne diseases.
Commercial diagnostic companies offering standardized kits and automated platforms.
Veterinary diagnostic centers that integrate tick testing into routine animal health services.

The extraction protocol follows a consistent sequence: mechanical disruption of the exoskeleton, chemical lysis with proteinase K and detergent, purification using silica‑column or magnetic‑bead technology, and final elution in low‑ionic‑strength buffer. Quantification by spectrophotometry or fluorometry confirms DNA yield suitable for downstream PCR or sequencing.

Sample integrity is preserved by immediate placement in 70 % ethanol or RNAlater, followed by storage at –20 °C or lower. Labels must include collection date, geographic coordinates, and host information to ensure traceability throughout the analytical pipeline.

PCR Testing for Specific Pathogens

PCR testing identifies DNA or RNA of targeted microorganisms in tick specimens, providing definitive confirmation of infection by pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Rickettsia spp., and Babesia spp. The method amplifies genetic material, enabling detection even when pathogen load is low, and supports epidemiological surveillance and clinical decision‑making.

Samples can be submitted to the following facilities:

State or regional public health laboratories that operate accredited molecular diagnostics programs.
University or research institute laboratories with expertise in vector‑borne disease testing.
Veterinary diagnostic centers that offer tick analysis for companion‑animal and wildlife health.
Commercial clinical laboratories that provide direct‑to‑consumer or physician‑ordered PCR panels for tick‑borne pathogens.
Hospital or clinic microbiology departments equipped with real‑time PCR platforms.

When arranging testing, verify that the laboratory validates assays for the specific pathogen of interest, adheres to biosafety standards, and supplies clear reporting of results, including cycle threshold values and interpretation guidelines.

Common Pathogens Tested

Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi)

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of infected Ixodes ticks. Early manifestations include erythema migrans, fever, headache, and fatigue; later stages may involve arthritis, neurologic deficits, and cardiac involvement. Prompt identification of an infected tick can confirm exposure before serologic testing becomes reliable.

Testing a collected tick provides direct evidence of pathogen presence, guiding clinical decisions and public‑health surveillance. Samples are accepted by a range of facilities that specialize in vector‑borne disease diagnostics.

State or regional public‑health laboratories, often free of charge for residents.
Commercial diagnostic companies (e.g., Quest Diagnostics, Labcorp) that process individual or bulk tick submissions.
University or research institution labs that run polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for B. burgdorferi.
Veterinary diagnostic centers that accept ticks from pets and may extend services to human specimens.
Mail‑in services offering prepaid kits for nationwide shipment.

When submitting a tick, place the specimen in a sealed, sterile container with a damp paper towel to maintain humidity. Label the package with collection date, location, and host information. Use a trackable courier service if shipping to a distant laboratory. Fees vary from zero at public‑health sites to $30‑$70 for commercial testing; results typically return within 7‑14 days.

Positive PCR or culture confirms the presence of B. burgdorferi in the tick, indicating a risk of infection. Negative results do not exclude disease, especially if the tick was removed after prolonged feeding. Clinicians should base treatment decisions on patient symptoms, exposure history, and, when available, serologic testing.

Anaplasmosis

Anaplasmosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by Ixodes ticks, and accurate diagnosis depends on proper tick analysis. Collecting a tick from a patient, animal, or environment should be followed by submission to a facility equipped for molecular or serological testing.

Typical venues for tick submission include:

Veterinary practices with in‑house diagnostic capabilities; they can perform PCR or culture and provide rapid results for companion animals.
State or regional public health laboratories; these agencies run standardized PCR assays and maintain surveillance databases for human cases.
University or research institution laboratories; they often accept external samples for advanced testing, including sequencing of Anaplasma spp.
Commercial diagnostic companies; they offer mail‑in services, process ticks using validated PCR panels, and return reports electronically.
Specialized tick‑testing services; they focus exclusively on arthropod identification and pathogen detection, employing both PCR and immunofluorescence techniques.

When sending a tick, preserve it in a sealed container with a damp cotton swab to prevent desiccation. Include a brief questionnaire detailing the host, date of collection, and geographic location. Laboratories require this information to interpret results and contribute to epidemiological mapping.

Timely submission to any of the above facilities ensures reliable detection of Anaplasma DNA, facilitates appropriate treatment decisions, and supports public‑health monitoring of tick‑borne disease prevalence.

Ehrlichiosis

Ehrlichiosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, primarily Amblyomma and Rhipicephalus species. Accurate diagnosis begins with the collection of the tick that caused exposure and its submission to a qualified laboratory for analysis.

Public health laboratories operated by state or provincial health departments routinely accept tick specimens. Contact the local health department to obtain a submission form, packaging guidelines, and shipping instructions. Many jurisdictions provide free testing for ticks collected from humans or domestic animals.

Veterinary diagnostic centers also process ticks removed from pets. Large animal clinics and university veterinary schools often have dedicated parasitology units capable of molecular identification of Ehrlichia species. Arrange drop‑off or courier service according to the facility’s protocol.

Commercial reference laboratories, such as IDEXX, Quest Diagnostics, and Eurofins, offer tick analysis services nationwide. Orders can be placed online; the provider supplies a pre‑paid container, label, and detailed instructions for preserving the specimen in ethanol or dry ice.

For field researchers, university entomology departments typically maintain a tick repository and provide analysis through graduate student projects or faculty labs. Submission requires a brief data sheet describing collection site, host, and date of capture.

Key steps for successful tick submission:

Preserve the tick in 70‑95 % ethanol or keep it frozen at –20 °C.
Complete the required questionnaire with precise geographic coordinates.
Use a leak‑proof container and affix the provided label.
Ship the sample within 48 hours of collection to maintain DNA integrity.

Timely submission to an appropriate testing facility enables identification of Ehrlichia DNA, informs clinical management, and supports epidemiological surveillance of tick‑borne diseases.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a bacterial infection transmitted by the bite of infected ticks, primarily Dermacentor species. Prompt identification of a potentially infected tick can guide early treatment and reduce severe outcomes.

Ticks suitable for laboratory examination can be submitted to the following facilities:

Local or county health department laboratories, which often provide free testing for residents.
State public health laboratories, offering confirmatory assays and epidemiologic reporting.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reference laboratory, accessible through state health agencies for complex cases.
Veterinary diagnostic laboratories that accept wildlife and domestic‑animal specimens.
Commercial diagnostic companies that market tick‑testing kits for clinicians and the public.

When sending a specimen, adhere to these requirements:

Place the tick in a sealed, dry container or a small vial with 70 % ethanol if preservation is needed.
Include a label with collection date, geographic location (city, county, state), and host species, if known.
Complete the accompanying request form, specifying the need for testing for Rickettsia rickettsii or other spotted‑fever group organisms.
Ship the package via a carrier that allows biological specimens, following any required biohazard markings.

Test results are reported as positive, negative, or indeterminate. A positive finding for Rickettsia rickettsii warrants immediate clinical evaluation and empiric doxycycline therapy, regardless of symptom severity. Negative results do not exclude infection; clinical judgment should consider exposure history and symptomatology.

Powassan Virus

Powassan virus is a rare but potentially severe tick‑borne encephalitis. Accurate diagnosis depends on testing a tick that may have fed on an infected host. Specimens can be submitted to the following entities:

State or local public health laboratories that offer tick testing services. Contact the health department’s vector‑borne disease program for submission guidelines.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Arbovirus Diagnostic Laboratory. The CDC accepts ticks for Powassan virus testing through a formal request form and prepaid shipping.
Certified veterinary diagnostic laboratories that process wildlife samples. These facilities routinely receive ticks collected from animals and can screen for Powassan virus RNA.
University or research institutions with entomology or virology cores. Many academic labs run tick‑borne pathogen panels and provide results to collaborators or health agencies.
Commercial diagnostic companies that specialize in vector‑borne disease testing. Their websites list sample‑submission kits and shipping instructions.

When sending a tick, preserve it in a dry, breathable container or in 70 % ethanol, label with collection date, location, and host species, and include a completed requisition form. Prompt submission improves detection sensitivity and supports public‑health surveillance of Powassan virus activity.

Interpreting Results

Positive vs. Negative Findings

Ticks can be submitted for laboratory examination from several sources. Common collection points include personal outdoor clothing, domestic pets, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and public health clinics. Each venue provides a specimen that can be processed for pathogen detection.

The analysis yields either a positive or a negative result. A positive finding confirms the presence of one or more disease agents, such as Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, or tick-borne encephalitis virus. This information guides clinical management, informs preventive measures, and contributes to regional surveillance data. A negative finding indicates that the tested pathogens were not detected in the sample, but it does not exclude the possibility of infection from other, untested agents or from a later exposure.

Interpretation of results depends on the timing of collection, the tick species, and the geographic area. Positive results from a single tick do not guarantee disease transmission, while negative results should be considered alongside patient symptoms and exposure history.

Typical submission locations

Personal clothing and gear after outdoor activity
Veterinarian offices handling companion animals
Wildlife rescue facilities processing captured fauna
Public health laboratories receiving community specimens

Implications for Treatment

Ticks can be submitted for laboratory examination at medical clinics, veterinary offices, public health laboratories, university research centers, and specialized diagnostic companies. Field collection kits are available for personal use, allowing specimens to be mailed to accredited facilities. Some regional health departments operate drop‑off points for tick surveillance programs.

Analysis results shape therapeutic decisions in several ways:

Identification of pathogen species determines the appropriate antimicrobial agent; for example, Borrelia burgdorferi infection warrants doxycycline, whereas Anaplasma spp. require a different regimen.
Detection of co‑infections prompts combination therapy or extended treatment courses.
Antimicrobial susceptibility data guide selection of drugs with proven efficacy against resistant strains.
Quantitative pathogen load informs duration of therapy, with higher loads often requiring longer courses.
Early confirmation of infection supports prophylactic treatment for high‑risk exposures, reducing progression to severe disease.

Accurate tick testing therefore enables targeted, evidence‑based treatment, minimizes unnecessary antibiotic use, and improves patient outcomes.

Financial Considerations and Insurance

Cost of Testing

Varies by Facility and Test Panel

Tick collection for laboratory analysis depends on the type of institution conducting the test and the specific diagnostic panel requested. Veterinary clinics and animal hospitals typically accept ticks for routine pathogen screening, such as Borrelia or Ehrlichia detection. Public health laboratories process ticks submitted for surveillance of emerging diseases and may offer broader panels that include viral and bacterial agents. University research facilities focus on ecological studies and can provide species identification and genetic sequencing services. Private diagnostic companies often specialize in rapid testing for common tick-borne infections and may limit their panels to a few high‑prevalence pathogens. Wildlife management agencies collect ticks for population monitoring and generally coordinate with regional labs that support environmental health panels.

Veterinary clinics – basic bacterial and protozoan panels
Public health labs – comprehensive surveillance panels, including viral agents
University research labs – species identification, genomics, and experimental panels
Private diagnostic firms – targeted panels for prevalent human and animal pathogens
Wildlife agencies – ecological and vector‑competence panels

Selection of a facility should align with the desired test panel. Facilities offering broader panels provide more extensive pathogen coverage but may require longer turnaround times. Specialized labs with narrow panels deliver faster results for specific agents. Confirm the available panels before submitting a sample to ensure the chosen institution can perform the required analyses.

Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Out‑of‑pocket expenses refer to the amount a client pays directly when a tick is submitted for laboratory examination without reimbursement from insurance or public health programs. The cost covers specimen collection kits, shipping, and the analytical service itself.

Typical locations for submitting a tick and their fee structures include:

State health department laboratories – fee ranges from $15 to $30 per specimen; some states waive the charge for residents with documented exposure.
University or research institute diagnostic centers – standard charge of $25 to $40; discounts may apply for bulk submissions.
Private veterinary or medical diagnostic clinics – price usually $35 to $50; includes rapid turnaround and optional pathogen‑specific testing panels.
Commercial online testing services – flat rate of $40 to $60; includes prepaid mailing envelope and detailed report.

Patients should verify whether the provider accepts cash, credit, or electronic payment, and confirm that the quoted amount includes all taxes and handling fees. Since most health insurers treat tick testing as a preventive service, reimbursement is rare; therefore, budgeting for the full amount before submitting the specimen prevents unexpected financial burden.

Insurance Coverage

Medical Insurance Reimbursement

Medical insurance reimbursement for tick testing depends on the provider type, the diagnostic code used, and the policy’s coverage rules. Primary care offices, urgent‑care centers, and dermatology clinics routinely collect a tick specimen and submit a laboratory request. Commercial insurers typically require a Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code for “Tick identification” (CPT 87210) and a diagnosis code indicating suspected tick‑borne disease (e.g., ICD‑10 A69.2 for Lyme disease). When the service is rendered in‑network, the claim is processed automatically; out‑of‑network facilities may need prior authorization and a higher patient cost‑share.

Reimbursement workflow:

Provider obtains a written order for tick analysis and records the appropriate CPT and ICD‑10 codes.
Specimen is sent to an accredited laboratory (e.g., state public health lab or commercial reference lab).
Laboratory returns results and a bill with the same procedural and diagnosis codes.
Insurance carrier adjudicates the claim, applying the plan’s fee schedule, deductible, and co‑pay rules.
Explanation of Benefits (EOB) is issued to the patient and provider; any remaining balance is billed to the patient.

Key documentation requirements include:

Signed physician order specifying the clinical indication.
Laboratory report confirming tick species and pathogen testing.
Patient’s insurance identification and eligibility verification at the time of service.

Policies that exclude “preventive” testing may deny coverage unless the clinician documents a medical necessity, such as a recent tick bite, rash, or flu‑like symptoms. Patients should verify coverage details before the appointment to avoid unexpected out‑of‑pocket expenses.

Public Health Program Assistance

Ticks collected for diagnostic testing must be processed in facilities equipped to identify pathogens and assess infection risk. Reliable testing sites include:

State and local health department laboratories that operate vector‑borne disease units.
University or research institute laboratories with accredited entomology or microbiology departments.
Private clinical laboratories that offer tick‑borne disease panels and are certified under CLIA.
Hospital‑based infectious disease labs that provide rapid PCR or serology services.
Mobile field units deployed by public health agencies during outbreak investigations.

Public health program assistance coordinates access to these resources. It provides funding for specimen transport, supplies standardized collection kits, and offers technical guidance on proper tick preservation. Program staff facilitate communication between submitters and laboratories, ensuring results are reported promptly to clinicians and surveillance databases. By integrating laboratory capacity with outreach and education, public health assistance maximizes the effectiveness of tick‑analysis initiatives and supports timely disease control measures.

Payment Options

Direct Billing

Direct billing refers to the practice of invoicing the payer—usually an insurance carrier or the patient—immediately at the point of service, without routing the charge through an intermediary. The approach eliminates the need for additional claim‑submission steps, accelerates payment cycles, and reduces administrative overhead for providers.

When a specimen requires analysis, the following venues typically allow direct billing at the moment of collection:

Hospital emergency departments
Outpatient primary‑care clinics
Urgent‑care centers
Dedicated diagnostic laboratories with on‑site phlebotomy
Mobile phlebotomy services that operate under a provider contract

Each location integrates the billing transaction into the electronic health‑record workflow, ensuring that the charge is recorded and transmitted to the insurer or patient at the time the sample is taken. This integration supports real‑time verification of coverage, immediate cost estimation for the patient, and prompt reconciliation of accounts receivable.

Patient Responsibility

Patients are expected to collect a tick promptly after removal and preserve it for laboratory examination. Immediate placement of the specimen in a sealed container, such as a zip‑lock bag, prevents loss of material and contamination. Adding a damp cotton ball maintains tick hydration, which is critical for accurate identification and pathogen detection.

Key actions for patients include:

Inspect the bite site and surrounding skin within 24 hours of removal.
Use fine tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward with steady pressure; avoid crushing the body.
Place the intact tick in a sterile container, label with date, location of bite, and any symptoms.
Store the container at 4 °C (refrigerator) if analysis will be delayed beyond 24 hours.

Acceptable destinations for submitting the specimen are:

Hospital or clinic laboratories that offer vector‑borne disease testing.
State or regional public health laboratories that process tick samples for surveillance.
Accredited private diagnostic companies that provide tick‑borne pathogen panels.

Patients must accompany the specimen with a completed request form that includes personal identifiers, exposure details, and consent for testing. Failure to follow these procedures reduces diagnostic yield and may delay treatment decisions.