LYME DISEASE TESTING/LABS
Additional Specialized Lyme Disease Testing & Evaluation
In addition to a microscopy, which we usually require before a patient’s scheduled doctor consult, we offer the following assessments either through our facility or suggested outside facilities with whom we work closely. This additional Lyme Disease testing will be discussed with Dr. Morales if necessary for your protocol.
Advanced Microscopy & Live Blood Analysis
The patient’s blood is prepared in blood smear films, stained with modified Giemsa Technique, and observed in direct microscopy and dark field enhanced microscopy. The purpose of the microscopies is to detect the presence of intra or extracellular bacterial infiltration of the processed sample.
The microscopies also reveal factors of cell morphology and histomorphology, shape, size, and distribution. Findings are not intended as a diagnostic tool nor to evaluate treatment success/outcome. They are for informational purposes only and predominantly used for analysis of any existing co-infections, such as Bartonella and Babesia.
Cerebral Spinal Fluid Extraction, Culture and Analysis
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is a group of laboratory tests that measures chemicals in the fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. The tests involve a small insertion of a needle in the lumbar region. Prior sedation is administered, and the process usually takes no more than 15 minutes. Patients experience minimal to no pain or long-lasting side effects after the procedure. The sample is then analyzed for proteins, sugar (glucose), and other substances that will help the doctor determine possible cases of neuro-borreliosis, encephalitis, meningitis, or in some cases, isolation of pathogens (such as those that are bacterial, fungal or parasitical). This procedure may also be done in cases where the patient is receiving Specialized Purified Stem Cells to the brain via the Spinal Canal.
PCR, WB, Culture/or other for Lyme & Co-Infections
If you require extensive, highly sensitive and specific Lyme Disease testing, we can assist with drawing blood and sending samples to the top research institution in the country, the Mexican National Research Institute Department of Infectious Diseases. They specialize in tick-related infections, and will test patients’ blood for Bartonella, Babesia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Ricketsia, B. Burgdorferi, Afzelii and Garinii by PCR, ELISA and Western Blot at affordable prices. Usually a report of the results will be delivered within 2-3 weeks. However, please be aware that there is a high demand for this test package; therefore, results may often take a few months to be reported in some cases. LM clinic is not affiliated with this institution, nor has any influence on the price or timeline of test results. Furthermore, LM clinic is not responsible nor liable in any way for the accuracy of the results or time frame of the delivery of the results by the Mexican National Research Institute Department of Infectious Diseases.
Body Fluids Analysis for Spirochetal Activity/Sexual Transmissibility
Clinical, epidemiological and experimental evidence for sexual transmission of Lyme disease in animal models and humans has been extensively reported. Although the likelihood of sexual transmission of the Lyme spirochete remains speculative, the possibility of Lyme disease transmission via intimate human contact is possible. Due to this conjecture and in the best interest of our patients and their loved ones, we offer an analysis of samples from vaginal fluids and sperms in order to identify the likelihood of transmissibility and/or viability of B. Burgdorferi. The sample is collected by the patient or spouse and sent to our labs for a microscopic analysis (if viable culturing of the sample was performed ) to find bacterial activity. This may be a resourceful tool in assessing prognosis in some cases and when trying to identify current activity of the Lyme bacteria in genital fluids, viability of intercourse and even planning for pregnancy. The studies are still in a premature phase and therefore should not be used as a measure to establish possible transmission of infection; however they are helpful in determining the specific behavior of a strain, activity and/or lack of activity.
MRI, CT/or Other Imaging Studies
Medical imaging is available for creating visual representations of possible Lyme related lesions or to rule out injury. The objective of the analysis is to visually determine the function of some organs and/or tissues, and explain their dysfunction if applicable. This test is primarily of interest in the search for neuro-borreliosis lesions or Multi Focal Demyelinating Neuropathy, which could be addressed by neuro peptides, stem cells or other neuro-protective/regenerative approaches.
General Weekly Lab Assay
Information coming soon.
Dental Evaluation
Due to the potential correlation between dental health and Lyme, we insist that our beloved patients visit our dentist or any other dentist prior to or during their visit with us. Practitioners must be aware of the systemic effects from this often multi-organ disorder. Lyme clinical manifestations may include: facial and dental pain, facial nerve palsy, headache, temporomandibular joint pain, and masticatory muscle pain — all of which may be directly associated with an infected tooth or, in some cases, an abscess in the oral cavity that can potentially contain encapsulated versions of the spirochete. In addition, oftentimes, many people have metallic crowns or fillings that might seem inconsequential; however, studies have demonstrated that some of these metals (while being digested by salivary enzymes) are introduced to the patient’s blood stream and gut, affecting the immunologic response and even promoting auto-antibodies. This can ultimately disrupt several organ functions. Patients who have thyroid, adrenal or neurodegenerative symptoms can often benefit from removing such metals from the oral cavity. The side effects from performing dental procedures on a patient with Lyme disease must also be considered.
Hormonal Assessment
An approximate 30-45 minute personal office consult with Dr. Cinthia Beccerra which include: review and assessment of general and hormonal labs with possible specialty labs or imaging ordered depending on patient. The consult will include an evaluation of possible Lyme/auto-immune/hormone linkage, and a determination if supplemental treatment with hormonal pellets, pills or injections is deemed advisable. Any required prescriptions and follow up treatment plans will be included.
Nutrition Assessment
A nutrition assessment is the best way to determine whether or not people’s nutritional needs are effectively being met, once food is available and easily accessible, and ultimately how the food can affect illness. An approximate 30 minute personal office consult with on duty nutritionist will include an in-depth evaluation of both objective and subjective data related to an individual’s food and nutrient intake, lifestyle, and medical history. Once the data on an individual is collected and organized, the practitioner will assess and evaluate the nutritional status of that person and come up with a list of food to avoid and enjoy during the course of treatments and post-treatment. It is crucial for patients to stick to a diet that lowers inflammation markers during treatments.