Lyme disease.

Abstract

To review the presentation, treatment, and prevention of Lyme disease in primary care. Selected articles from the scientific literature and the Centers for Disease Control. Lyme disease is a tick-borne, multisystem inflammatory disease with worldwide distribution caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. Lyme disease is initially characterized by a spreading, annular erythema migrans skin rash and can disseminate to the musculoskeletal, neurologic, or cardiovascular system. Stages of the disease present with varying clinical manifestations. Treatment of Lyme disease with appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be prompt in order to avoid debilitating outcomes. Awareness of the many presentations of Lyme disease in endemic areas may facilitate a timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.