Lyme disease: recognizing borreliosis in time
Tick, erythema migrans, antibiotic therapy
Dr. Sophie Martin
Infectiologist
In simple terms
From early diagnosis to prevention of late forms, understanding Lyme disease.
An infection transmitted by ticks
Lyme disease is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted by the bite of Ixodes ticks. Increased risk in spring and summer, in wooded and grassy areas.
Clinical phases
- Early localized phase: erythema migrans (centrifugal red patch >5 cm) 3 to 30 days after the bite
- Early disseminated phase: multiple erythemata, facial palsy, meningitis, cardiac involvement
- Late phase: chronic arthritis (knee ++), neurological involvement, acrodermatitis
Diagnosis
Erythema migrans: clinical diagnosis, serology unnecessary. Late phases: ELISA serology + Western Blot.
Treatments
Doxycycline 14 to 21 days as first-line (amoxicillin if contraindication). Neurological forms: IV ceftriaxone.
Prevention
Covering clothing, repellents, body inspection after walks, quick removal of ticks with a tick remover.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Chronic
- A problem that lasts a long time, usually more than three months, and often comes back.
- Diagnosis
- The moment a doctor identifies which illness is causing your symptoms.
- Cardiovascular
- Related to the heart and blood vessels.
- Prevention
- Steps taken before a problem starts, to make it less likely.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Lyme disease: recognizing borreliosis in time?
- From early diagnosis to prevention of late forms, understanding Lyme disease.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Lyme disease: recognizing borreliosis in time?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Lyme disease: recognizing borreliosis in time?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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