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Lyme Meningoencephalitis Masquerading as Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Aakash Desai1, Gaurav Manek2, Anand M Krishnan2
1Internal Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center , Farmington, USA.
Abstract:
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness caused primarily by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. The disease is most prevalent in forested areas endemic for Ixodes tick, which transmits the spirochete. Here, we describe a case of Lyme meningoencephalitis masquerading as normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) which initially presented with urinary incontinence, gait instability, and neurological decline. Due to its non-specific symptoms and low incidence, Lyme meningoencephalitis causing NPH like syndrome poses a diagnostic conundrum for clinicians. Awareness of this disease entity is key for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Insights
Lyme meningoencephalitis can mimic normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), presenting with urinary incontinence and gait issues. Early recognition of this rare tick-borne illness is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Lyme disease, caused by *Borrelia burgdorferi*, is transmitted by Ixodes ticks in endemic forested regions.
- Neurological manifestations of Lyme disease can be diverse and challenging to diagnose.
Observation:
- A case of Lyme meningoencephalitis presented with symptoms mimicking normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
- Key NPH-like symptoms included urinary incontinence, gait instability, and progressive neurological decline.
Findings:
- Lyme meningoencephalitis can present as an NPH-like syndrome, posing a diagnostic challenge.
- The non-specific nature and low incidence of this presentation contribute to diagnostic difficulties.
Implications:
- Increased clinical awareness of Lyme meningoencephalitis presenting as NPH is essential.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical for managing this rare neurological complication of Lyme disease.
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