Lyme Disease
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - A692
What is Lyme disease?
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. When left untreated, it can lead to complications in the heart and nervous system. It is a rare disease in Brazil, being more common in the United States.
Symptoms
Lyme disease causes a bullseye-shaped skin rash, fever, headache, fatigue, joint pain, and limb weakness. Complications such as heart and nervous system problems may appear later. Some people develop a syndrome marked by persistent symptoms.
Causes
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of infected ticks.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of Lyme disease is based on symptoms. Laboratory tests may be performed a few weeks after exposure to ticks.
Prevention
To prevent Lyme disease, avoid contact with ticks. When visiting areas where ticks are present, use repellents and cover your body. If necessary, remove ticks from the skin properly.
Treatment
Treatment for Lyme disease is primarily done with antibiotics, as prescribed by a doctor. Complications also need to be managed. In cases of post-Lyme disease syndrome, healthcare professionals assess the best way to address persistent symptoms.
Duration
Most cases of Lyme disease are treated with antibiotics for up to four weeks. Some people develop a syndrome with persistent symptoms that can last from months to years after treatment ends.
Is it contagious?
There is no evidence that Lyme disease can be transmitted from person to person. The infection is transmitted through ticks infected with the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium.
Can it be contracted more than once?
A person can be infected more than once with the bacterium that causes Lyme disease.