Lyme borreiosis with ocular manifestations during childhood period

Abstract

AbstractPurpose Lyme borreliosis (LB) is the most common human tick‐borne disease in the Northern hemisphere. The various ophthalmologic manifestations of Lyme borreliosis (LB) during childhood period are discussed in this study.Methods Six children with LB‐associated ocular manifestations were treated between 2000 and 2010 in the ophthalmology department of Strasbourg University Hospital (an endemic area). Medical history, ocular and systemic clinical findings, determinations of antibodies related to Borrelia as well as exclusion of other causes were diagnosis criteria.Results Two uveitis, Two abducens palsies, one optical neuropathy and one orbital myositis associated with LB were diagnosed. Systemic findings, such as arthritis, rash, or erythema migrans were mentioned in all cases. Two children also complained about severe knee arthritis. Determination of antibodies was positive in all patients. All patients were treated by antibiotics adjusted to individual circumstances and some of them (two uveitis and one optic neuropathy) also had anti‐inflammatory treatment. Resolution of ocular signs, without any relapse, was observed in all patients within two to twelve weeks.Conclusion For any unexplained ocular symptom, even for children, LB should be taken into account especially in endemic areas. Such patients should undergo serological testing. If the clinical presentation is suggestive of LB, a course of oral antibiotics should be used. All in all, permanent defects are extremely rare during childhood period, even following long‐term manifestation at an early age.