Lyme disease : a concise guide

Lyme disease, clinically known as Lyme borreliosis, holds the distinction of being the most prevalent tick-borne illness in the United States and ranks among the top vector-borne infections diagnosed globally. Caused by spirochete bacteria from the genus Borrelia, the disease has varying clinical presentations that are largely contingent on the stage of the infection. It encompasses a spectrum ranging from early localized symptoms like Erythema Migrans to more severe late-stage manifestations including arthritis and neurological complications. Although the disease is of particular concern in the United States, it has different epidemiological and clinical features across geographical regions due to variations in the prevalent Borrelia genospecies.

Understanding the key aspects of Lyme disease—its aetiology, transmission, and clinical manifestations across different stages—is critical for clinicians in primary care and specialized settings. Accurate diagnosis and timely treatment are essential for effectively managing this condition and minimizing its long-term impacts. This concise guide aims to provide clinicians with an overview of Lyme disease, arming them with the essential knowledge needed for diagnosis and management.