Lyme disease...

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by the spirochete bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks. Lyme disease is named after the town of Lyme, Connecticut, where it was first identified in the 1970s.

 

The symptoms of Lyme disease can vary but often include fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes. One of the hallmark signs is a circular, red rash with a central clearing, resembling a "bull's-eye," although not everyone with Lyme disease develops this rash and not everyone with Lyme recalls being bitten by a tick.  

 

Lyme disease is most common in parts of North America, Europe, and Asia.  Lyme disease is often diagnosed based on symptoms, clinical evaluation, and, in some cases, blood tests. Serologic tests, such as the Multi Peptide Elisa (MPE) and Western blot, can help confirm the diagnosis by detecting antibodies to the bacterium, although the in chronic Lyme cases detection through blood work can become tricky as this bacterium is very clever at evading the immune system.  

 

Lyme disease is typically treated with antibiotics, such as doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime, depending on the patient's age and the stage of the disease. If left untreated or not treated promptly, Lyme disease can lead to more severe symptoms and complications, including joint pain, neurological problems, and cardiac issues.