Comprehensive Tick Analysis (Borrelia + TBE)

Tick season brings an increased risk of infections that can have serious health consequences. IntroLab in Belgrade now offers a unique PCR tick analysis that enables simultaneous detection of two critical pathogens: Borrelia burgdorferi (the cause of Lyme disease) and the Tick-Borne Encephalitis virus (TBE). Comprehensive tick analysis allows you to quickly determine whether you have been exposed to dangerous pathogens and take appropriate measures immediately.

What Is Comprehensive Tick Analysis?

PCR tick analysis is a molecular laboratory method that detects the genetic material of specific pathogens directly from a tick sample. Unlike traditional methods that require pathogen cultivation or serological testing (antibody detection), PCR enables rapid and reliable identification of the actual infectious agent.

How Is PCR Tick Analysis Performed?

• Sampling: The tick is carefully removed from the patient’s skin using a specialized technique.
• Processing: The tick is transported to the laboratory and processed according to standardized protocols.
• Extraction: Genetic material (DNA/RNA) is isolated from the tick.
• PCR Amplification: The genetic material is amplified (multiplied) to make it detectable.
• Detection: Specific pathogens are identified based on the detected genetic sequence.
• Result: Precise identification of Borrelia burgdorferi and/or the TBE virus — if present.

Borrelia burgdorferi – The Cause of Lyme Disease

Borrelia burgdorferi is a spirochete bacterium transmitted by infected ticks, particularly Ixodes ricinus (the European castor bean tick). This bacterium is the causative agent of Lyme disease (borreliosis), an infectious disease that can affect multiple body systems.

What Is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is an infectious illness characterized by:

• Early stage: Erythema migrans (a characteristic red circular rash with a lighter center at the bite site), fever, and muscle pain
• Later stage: Joint pain, arthritis, and neuroborreliosis (inflammation of the nervous system)

If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to chronic complications, including joint inflammation, heart problems, and neurological consequences.

Why Is Early Detection Important?

Antibiotic therapy is highly effective when started early. PCR tick analysis allows you to determine infection status even before symptoms appear, which is critical for preventing disease progression.

TBE Virus – Tick-Borne Encephalitis

TBE (Tick-Borne Encephalitis) is a viral infection transmitted by infected ticks. The virus affects the nervous system and can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) and the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis).

Symptoms of TBE Infection

TBE infection is typically characterized by a biphasic course.

First Phase (3–7 Days)

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Weakness
• Symptoms often resemble a common cold or flu

Second Phase (After Several Symptom-Free Days)

• Recurring fever
• Severe headaches
• Neck stiffness
• Confusion
• In severe cases: paralysis and brain inflammation

Risk of Severe Forms

There is no specific antiviral treatment for the TBE virus — treatment is supportive. Vaccination is available and recommended for people living in endemic regions.

Early detection of viral infection enables prompt referral to specialist care if intensive supportive measures are required.

What Samples Are Used?

Tick Sample:

• Step 1: The tick is carefully removed from the patient’s skin
• Step 2: It is stored in a sterile, labeled container
• Step 3: It is immediately transported to the laboratory

Transport Preparation

The tick should remain alive or be stored at an appropriate temperature during transport. IntroLab will provide detailed instructions regarding proper packaging and delivery.

Analysis Results

Turnaround Time

Results are usually available within 2–3 business days.

Interpretation of Results

The report will show:

• Borrelia burgdorferi: Negative or Positive (with Ct value)
• TBE Virus: Negative or Positive (with Ct value)
• Geneticist interpretation: Including recommendations for further treatment

Who Is This Analysis Intended For?

People who have had a tick removed from their skin during tick season (April–November), especially if:

• You live in an endemic region for Lyme disease or TBE
• The tick was attached for several hours or longer
• You want to determine infection status before symptoms appear
• You suspect an infection after a tick bite

Patients With Increased Exposure Risk

• People who spend time in nature (foresters, farmers, fishermen)
• Members of the diaspora returning from the Balkans with suspected exposure
• Veterinarians and people working with animals
• Travel and camping enthusiasts visiting endemic regions

Children and Pregnant Women

The analysis can be performed for children of any age, as well as for pregnant women, after a tick has been removed.

Comprehensive Tick Analysis Borrelia + TBE

Comprehensive tick analysis (Borrelia + TBE) is a modern, reliable, and valuable diagnostic option for anyone concerned about possible infection during tick season. With the ability to simultaneously detect both critical pathogens, this analysis allows you to quickly determine your infection status and take appropriate measures before serious complications develop.

If a tick has been removed from your skin, do not wait for symptoms to appear — contact IntroLab and schedule a PCR tick analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store the tick before sending it to the laboratory?

The tick should be processed as soon as possible, ideally within 24–48 hours. If too much time passes, sample viability may decrease. IntroLab will provide special storage instructions.

Is the analysis painful?

No. The analysis is performed on a tick sample that has already been removed from the skin. There are no additional procedures or discomfort involved.

What happens if the result is positive?

• For Borrelia: Antibiotics such as doxycycline and amoxicillin are highly effective when started early.
• For TBE: There is no specific antiviral treatment, but early diagnosis allows prompt referral to an infectious disease specialist or neurologist for further evaluation and supportive care.

Does this analysis prevent disease?

Not directly. The analysis is diagnostic — it detects the presence of pathogens. Its importance lies in enabling early detection and rapid treatment initiation, helping prevent disease progression.

How accurate is PCR analysis for both pathogens?

PCR has very high specificity (>99%), while sensitivity depends on:

• Time since the tick bite
• Time since tick removal
• Quality of the tick sample

Sensitivity is approximately 90–95% during the first 72 hours after the bite.

Does TBE vaccination affect the test result?

Vaccination triggers antibody production, but it does not affect PCR analysis because PCR detects the virus itself, not antibodies. However, serological testing may still show a positive result after vaccination.