Journal Mobile

Author(s): 
JJ Halperin
Journal Issue: 
Volume 40: Issue 3: 2010

Format

Abstract

 

Lyme  disease,  the  multi-system  infection  caused  by  the  tick-borne spirochaete Borrelia burgdorferi, can involve the nervous system, most commonly causing,  alone  or  in  combination,  lymphocytic  meningitis  or  abnormalities  of cranial  or  peripheral  nerves,  the  latter  most  typically  presenting  as  a  painful radicular syndrome. Diagnosis is based on appropriately used, standard serological tests;  in  instances  where  the  central  nervous  system  is  involved,  cerebrospinal fluid  assessment  for  organism-specific  antibodies  can  be  useful. Treatment  with any  of  several  standard  regimens  of  oral  or  parenteral  antimicrobials  is  highly effective. Prolonged treatment beyond four weeks is rarely if ever warranted, and carries significant risk.

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