Tick identification

TEST DESCRIPTION

Microscopic examination of a tick to determine the developmental stage and genus (e.g., Ixodes species, Dermacentor species). Ticks are known vectors for certain diseases.  The western black-legged tick (Ixodes pacificus) is the only tick species in California that is known to transmit Lyme Disease. If bitten by an infected tick, humans and animals can be infected and may develop Lyme Disease, which is caused by a spiral-shaped (spirochete) bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi.

Ticks in the nymph stage are about the size of a poppy seed and are most likely to bite humans and transmit Lyme Disease. Nymphs are primarily active in March to August (Summer). Adult ticks are most-commonly found in October to June (Winter/Spring). According to research, the tick must remain attached for more than 24 hours before the Lyme disease bacteria is transmitted. If you are unable to identify the tick, do not hesitate to submit it for testing.

 Additional information on tickborne disease transmission can be found in the Tickborne Diseases Reference Manual. 

Note: If Lyme Disease testing is desired, ticks can be referred directly to the Santa Clara County Public Health Laboratory.

Methodology

Microscopy

Reference range

No arthropod found

TEST FREQUENCY & RESULT AVAILABILITY

Performed daily. Results are typically available within one business day.

ACCEPTABLE SPECIMEN TYPES AND COLLECTION

• Whole, intact tick that is not dried out 
• Detailed collection instructions appear below

SPECIMEN STORAGE

1. Place the whole tick in a small sealed Ziplock bag or a clean plastic jar with a lid.   
2. Add a piece of paper towel or tissue (not toilet paper) that is moistened with water to the container if you are not able to bring the tick in within 48 hours.  

REJECTION CRITERIA

• A tick that is dried out, a tick in alcohol or bleach, head and body parts missing, crushed, or damaged such that the condition of the tick make it unusable to be identified.
  1. Note: A tick that is only partially dried may be acceptable for identification.

CODES

CPT: 87168
LOINC: 45342-3
Test code: 4015

TEST FEE

Refer to the current fee schedule.

DETAILED SPECIMEN COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

1. Remove tick immediately after seeing it.
2. Do not squash the tick; bacteria released in fluids may penetrate the skin.
3. If possible, have someone else remove the tick from you.
4. Use tweezers or forceps, not your fingers.
5. If you must touch the tick, use a tissue to protect your hand.
6. Using tweezers, grasp the tick’s mouth parts as close to the skin as possible.
7. Gently pull the tick straight out, steadily, and firmly. 
8. Do not twist or jerk the tick. If the mouth parts of the tick break off and remain in the skin, consult a Physician.
9. Clean the wound with soap and water.