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Chronic Lyme disease and the 'Axis of Evil'

Raphael B Stricker1, Lorraine Johnson

  • 1International Lyme & Associated Diseases Society, PO Box 341461, Bethesda, MD 20827-21461, USA. rstricker@usmamed.com

Future Microbiology
|December 17, 2008
PubMed

Insights

The debate over chronic Lyme disease and persistent Borrelia burgdorferi infection continues. This study refutes the

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Medical Controversies
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Lyme disease diagnosis and treatment remain contentious.
  • The concept of chronic Lyme disease is debated, with some attributing it to persistent Borrelia burgdorferi infection.
  • A recent publication identified an 'Axis of Evil' contributing to the controversy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the components of the 'Axis of Evil' in Lyme disease.
  • To analyze the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges faced by Lyme disease patients and physicians.
  • To provide an evidence-based refutation of the 'Axis of Evil' perspective.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and critical analysis of existing research.
  • Examination of diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols for Lyme disease.
  • Evaluation of the role of specialty laboratories and internet information.

Main Results:

  • The 'Axis of Evil' perspective oversimplifies the complexities of Lyme disease diagnosis and treatment.
  • Prolonged antibiotic use and inaccurate testing contribute to patient challenges.
  • The internet can exacerbate 'Lyme hysteria' but also provides patient support.

Conclusions:

  • The 'Axis of Evil' viewpoint, while misguided, highlights key areas for addressing Lyme disease controversy.
  • An evidence-based approach is crucial for resolving diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas.
  • Further research and improved clinical guidelines are needed to manage Lyme disease effectively.

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