Erythema migrans is a cutaneous eruption that characterizes the early stage of Lyme disease. Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks (Ixodes Scapularis) carrying the Borrelia Burgdorferi bacteria.
Three to 32 days after a tick bite, there is gradual expansion of redness around the papule representing the bite site. Multiple secondary annular lesions similar in appearance to the primary lesion will develop in 20% of patients. Treatment with antibiotics is necessary to prevent systemic involvement.
Systemic involvement manifests as Stage 2 and Stage 3 Lyme Disease. Stage 2 Lyme Disease may include meningitis, peripheral neuritis, and atrioventricular nodal block. Stage 3 Lyme Disease may include arthritis, chronic encephalopathy or polyneuropathy.
Photo and explanation courtesy of: Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment
Erythema migrans is a cutaneous eruption that characterizes the early stage of Lyme disease. Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks (Ixodes Scapularis) carrying the Borrelia Burgdorferi bacteria.
ReplyDeleteThree to 32 days after a tick bite, there is gradual expansion of redness around the papule representing the bite site. Multiple secondary annular lesions similar in appearance to the primary lesion will develop in 20% of patients. Treatment with antibiotics is necessary to prevent systemic involvement.
Systemic involvement manifests as Stage 2 and Stage 3 Lyme Disease. Stage 2 Lyme Disease may include meningitis, peripheral neuritis, and atrioventricular nodal block. Stage 3 Lyme Disease may include arthritis, chronic encephalopathy or polyneuropathy.
Photo and explanation courtesy of: Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment