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What does laboratory testing of a tick show?
Laboratory testing can detect selected pathogen material in a particular tick, but it does not determine whether transmission occurred or diagnose the person or animal that was bitten.
Reviewed by VuxLore® Knowledge Team For Everyone
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The specimen and patient answer different questions
A laboratory may identify the tick and test for defined genetic targets. That information can support research or surveillance but cannot replace clinical assessment.
Do not delay care
Anyone who becomes unwell after possible exposure should contact a qualified medical or veterinary professional rather than waiting for a tick-test result.