How long after a tick bite should I submit the tick for analysis? - briefly
Submit the tick within 24 hours of removal, and no later than 48 hours, to ensure reliable identification and pathogen testing. Delays beyond two days markedly reduce test accuracy.
How long after a tick bite should I submit the tick for analysis? - in detail
The optimal interval for sending a removed arthropod to a diagnostic laboratory is as short as possible, ideally within the first 24 hours after detachment. Specimens processed within this window retain viable DNA and RNA, which maximizes the sensitivity of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays and serologic tests for pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia microti, and Rickettsia species.
If immediate mailing is not feasible, the tick may be stored for up to 48 hours under specific conditions:
- Place the specimen in a sealed, breathable container (e.g., a small paper envelope) without crushing it.
- Keep the container at ambient temperature, avoiding direct sunlight and extreme heat.
- For longer preservation, immerse the tick in 70 % ethanol or freeze it at –20 °C, noting that ethanol may reduce the yield of certain nucleic acids, while freezing preserves them more effectively.
Beyond the 48‑hour mark, degradation of nucleic acids and loss of viable organisms become increasingly likely, reducing the reliability of test results. Some laboratories accept ticks stored for up to one week if they have been frozen immediately after removal, but this practice varies and should be confirmed with the receiving facility.
Key points for successful submission:
- Remove the tick with fine‑pointed tweezers, grasping close to the skin, and avoid squeezing the abdomen.
- Transfer the intact specimen into a clean, labeled container that includes the date of removal, the geographic location, and the host species.
- Contact the laboratory beforehand to verify their preferred preservation method and shipping timeline.
- Use a trackable mailing service to ensure delivery within the recommended period.
Prompt submission, proper handling, and clear documentation together provide the most accurate identification of the tick species and detection of any associated pathogens.