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Feeding of Ticks on Animals for Transmission and Xenodiagnosis in Lyme Disease Research
Published on: August 31, 2013
Progressive hemifacial atrophy associated with Lyme disease
H S Stern1, L F Elliott, P H Beegle
1Scottish Rite Children's Medical Center, Atlanta, Ga.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|September 11, 1992
Summary
A child experienced progressive hemifacial atrophy, potentially caused by Lyme disease. This rare condition was successfully treated using a free-flap transfer.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Progressive hemifacial atrophy (PHA) is a rare condition characterized by the slow, continuous shrinking of facial tissues.
- Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi infection, can manifest with diverse neurological and dermatological symptoms.
Observation:
- A pediatric case presenting with progressive hemifacial atrophy was diagnosed.
- The patient had a history consistent with Lyme disease, raising suspicion for a Borrelial etiology.
Findings:
- The study suggests a potential causal link between Borrelial infection and the development of progressive hemifacial atrophy in this child.
- Successful surgical management was achieved through an SIEA (Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery) free-flap transfer.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering Lyme disease in the differential diagnosis of pediatric hemifacial atrophy.
- The findings may prompt further research into the neuro-immuno-cutaneous manifestations of Lyme disease.
- Successful free-flap reconstruction offers a viable treatment option for severe facial asymmetry due to atrophy.
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