How long does it take to test a tick for encephalitis and Lyme disease?

Question

admin · Accepted Answer

How long does it take to test a tick for encephalitis and Lyme disease? - briefly
Laboratory analysis of a tick for tick‑borne encephalitis virus and Borrelia burgdorferi generally requires one to two weeks from receipt of the specimen. The timeframe includes DNA‑based PCR for viral detection and serological or PCR testing for Lyme disease.

How long does it take to test a tick for encephalitis and Lyme disease? - in detail
The interval from receipt of a tick specimen to a final report depends on the laboratory methods used and the logistics of sample handling.
Sample receipt: Most reference laboratories log a tick within 24 hours of arrival. If the specimen is mailed, transit time adds 1–3 days, depending on courier speed and distance.
Preparation: The tick is identified, cleaned, and, if required, dissected to separate the mouthparts from the body. This step typically requires 2–4 hours.
Testing for encephalitis‑causing viruses (e.g., tick‑borne encephalitis virus):

Nucleic‑acid extraction: 30–45 minutes.
Real‑time PCR amplification: 1.5–2 hours.
Confirmation and quality control: 1 hour.
Overall laboratory processing time: approximately 4–5 hours after the sample is ready for analysis.

Testing for Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi):

DNA extraction: 30 minutes.
Multiplex PCR or culture: PCR 2 hours; culture, if performed, requires 3–7 days for growth.
Sequencing or serologic confirmation (if needed): 1–2 hours.
For PCR‑based detection, the laboratory workload adds roughly 3 hours; culture extends the timeline to a week.

Result compilation and reporting: After analytical steps, the lab drafts a report, performs verification, and transmits the outcome. This administrative phase takes 6–12 hours.
Typical turnaround:

PCR‑only workflow (both pathogens): 2–4 days total (including shipping).
PCR plus culture for Lyme disease: 7–10 days total.

Delays may arise from high sample volume, weekend closures, or the need for confirmatory testing. Laboratories often provide an estimated completion date when the specimen is logged.