For years, the lack of reliable early testing for Lyme disease has left patients in limbo. When infection goes undetected in its early stages, chances of developing chronic complications — including persistent fatigue, joint pain, and neurological issues — rise dramatically.

Despite growing awareness, existing diagnostics often fall short, especially in identifying Lyme soon after a tick bite.

Now, encouraging progress is on the horizon. Researchers at ACES Diagnostics have unveiled LymeSeek, an A.I.-powered blood test that could mark a turning point in early detection.

With over 90% sensitivity and specificity, the test promises to correctly identify Lyme infection in 9 out of 10 patients—especially in its earliest stages.

Lowering risk of chronic Lyme

LymeSeek lowers the risk of chronic illness significantly, according to Holly Ahern, microbiologist and Chief Scientific Officer at ACES. Her team identified 10 key antigens and combined them into a single test panel—far simpler than the multi-test structure of the traditional method.

But the real breakthrough? Machine learning. After analyzing blood samples from 123 Lyme patients and 197 uninfected individuals, the researchers trained an algorithm to recognize individual immune patterns.

In trials, the test correctly flagged over 90% of early Lyme cases, compared to just 27% using the conventional method. Furthermore, it’s affordable and runs on standard lab equipment, which could accelerate its adoption once released.

Such a significant increase in accuracy could make a huge difference to patients at earlier stages of Lyme disease, when the infection is most effectively treated.

ACES hopes to make the test commercially available by the end of 2026, potentially transforming the landscape of Lyme diagnosis and care.

SOURCE: Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM)

Click here to learn more about this test: Aces Diagnostics