Lyme disease - primary
Alternative names:
Lyme borreliosis; stage 1 Lyme disease; early localized
Lyme infection
Definition:
An acute inflammatory
disease characterized by skin changes, joint
inflammation, and flu-like
symptoms caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi transmitted
by the bite of a deer tick.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
In primary Lyme disease, a flu-like
illness with fever, chills,
and muscle aches occur in about 50% of those infected. If
untreated, the disease may progress to secondary
and tertiary stages.
Risk factors include recent tick bite or recent outdoor activities
in endemic areas. Approximately 8 out of 100,000 people are
affected annually. See also Lyme
disease.
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
editorial
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