When should tests be taken after an encephalitis tick bite? - briefly
Serologic testing is advised roughly 2–4 weeks after the tick exposure, when antibodies are usually detectable. A follow‑up sample at 6–8 weeks confirms seroconversion if the initial test is negative.
When should tests be taken after an encephalitis tick bite? - in detail
Testing after a potentially TBE‑infected tick bite follows a defined schedule aimed at detecting the virus before symptoms appear or as soon as they emerge. The first laboratory evaluation should occur 7–10 days post‑exposure. At this point, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on blood or cerebrospinal fluid can identify viral RNA, although sensitivity is low before viremia peaks.
If the initial PCR is negative and the bite occurred in a high‑risk region, a second sample is recommended at 14–21 days. Serologic testing for TBE‑specific IgM and IgG antibodies becomes reliable from day 10 onward; a paired serum sample taken 2–3 weeks after the bite allows detection of seroconversion.
When neurological signs develop (e.g., fever, headache, neck stiffness, or altered consciousness), immediate testing is required regardless of the timeline. In such cases, lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid analysis should be performed, with PCR and intrathecal antibody synthesis assessed simultaneously.
A concise testing protocol:
- Day 7–10: PCR on blood (optional CSF if symptoms present).
- Day 14–21: Repeat PCR if initial test negative; first serology for IgM/IgG.
- Day 28–35: Paired serology to confirm rising antibody titers.
- At symptom onset: Immediate PCR and CSF analysis, regardless of day count.
Adhering to this schedule maximizes the likelihood of early detection, guides antiviral or supportive therapy, and informs public‑health reporting.