Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2026
Detecting the Lyme Disease Spirochete, Borrelia Burgdorferi, in Ticks Using Nested PCR
Published on: February 4, 2018
Proof that chronic lyme disease exists
1Department of Medicine, Northern Westchester Hospital, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549, USA.
Insights
Chronic Lyme Disease (CLD) is a validated condition requiring medical attention. Recognizing CLD can improve diagnosis and treatment, leading to better patient outcomes and societal benefits.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Mounting evidence supports the existence and severity of Chronic Lyme Disease (CLD).
- Four National Institutes of Health (NIH) trials have validated CLD, yet some physicians remain skeptical.
- Diagnostic delays and prolonged illness durations (4.7-9 years) are significant issues in current Lyme disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for the medical community's recognition and acceptance of CLD.
- To highlight the societal risks of untreated CLD and antibiotic resistance.
- To explore potential avenues for improved CLD diagnosis and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing NIH trial data on CLD.
- Analysis of diagnostic delays and treatment outcomes.
- Consideration of societal risks versus benefits of CLD treatment.
Main Results:
- NIH trials confirm the existence and severity of CLD.
- Delayed diagnosis contributes to prolonged illness and poor quality of life.
- Societal risks of antibiotic resistance must be balanced against risks of undertreating CLD.
Conclusions:
- Acceptance of CLD by the medical community is crucial for finding solutions.
- Innovative early treatments and improved diagnostic strategies may prevent CLD.
- Development of effective treatment regimens for prolonged CLD is essential for improving patient outcomes.
Abstract:
The evidence continues to mount that Chronic Lyme Disease (CLD) exists and must be addressed by the medical community if solutions are to be found. Four National Institutes of Health (NIH) trials validated the existence and severity of CLD. Despite the evidence, there are physicians who continue to deny the existence and severity of CLD, which can hinder efforts to find a solution. Recognizing CLD could facilitate efforts to avoid diagnostic delays of two years and durations of illness of 4.7 to 9 years described in the NIH trials. The risk to society of emerging antibiotic-resistant organisms should be weighed against the societal risks associated with failing to treat an emerging population saddled with CLD. The mixed long-term outcome in children could also be examined. Once we accept the evidence that CLD exists, the medical community should be able to find solutions. Medical professionals should be encouraged to examine whether: (1) innovative treatments for early LD might prevent CLD, (2) early diagnosis of CLD might result in better treatment outcomes, and (3) more effective treatment regimens can be developed for CLD patients who have had prolonged illness and an associated poor quality of life.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Toxoplasmosis
01:30Bacterial Phylum Spirochaetes
01:22Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
01:23Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
01:12Chronic Inflammation: Introduction
01:26Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever