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Detecting the Lyme Disease Spirochete, Borrelia Burgdorferi, in Ticks Using Nested PCR
Published on: February 4, 2018
[Extensive Myelitis as a Manifestation of Neuroborreliosis]
Ana Brás1, Nuno Marques2, Beatriz Santiago1
1Serviço de Neurologia. Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra. Coimbra. Portugal.
Abstract:
Neurological manifestations of Lyme disease are reported in 3% - 12% of patients, with the most common form of presentation being meningoradiculitis. Other symptoms involving the central nervous system, such as myelitis or encephalitis, are rare (< 5 %). We report a case of a 66-year-old male, with a subacute extensive transverse myelitis, secondary to Borrelia burgdorferi infection. The patient underwent antibiotic therapy filed for neuroborreliosis with a good clinical outcome. The rareness in clinical symptoms and imaging presentation, based on a treatable infectious disease, highlights the importance of the inclusion of neuroborreliosis in the differential diagnosis of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis.
Insights
Neurological Lyme disease can cause rare but serious conditions like transverse myelitis. Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment of neuroborreliosis are crucial for a good outcome.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Neurological Lyme disease affects 3-12% of patients, commonly presenting as meningoradiculitis.
- Central nervous system involvement, including myelitis and encephalitis, is rare (<5%).
Observation:
- A 66-year-old male presented with subacute extensive transverse myelitis.
- The myelitis was secondary to Borrelia burgdorferi infection.
Findings:
- The patient received antibiotic therapy for neuroborreliosis.
- A good clinical outcome was achieved following treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering neuroborreliosis in differential diagnoses for longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis.
- The treatable nature of this infectious cause underscores the need for timely diagnosis and intervention.
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