Lyme Neuroborreliosis is a Severe and Frequent Neurological Disease in Mexico

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Neurology

Background:

• Neurological manifestations associated with Borrelia burgdorferi infection, known as Lyme neuroborreliosis, can present with diverse clinical symptoms.
• Accurate diagnosis and understanding the epidemiology of Lyme neuroborreliosis are crucial for effective patient management, especially in regions where it may be underdiagnosed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe clinical cases of neurological manifestations linked to Borrelia burgdorferi infection in a large cohort of Mexican children and adults.
• To identify the prevalence and common neurological presentations of Lyme neuroborreliosis in Mexico.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of patients with neurological manifestations was recruited from January 2006 to December 2015 in Mexican hospitals.
• Blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples were analyzed for IgM and IgG antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi using ELISA and confirmed by Western Blot (WB).
• Cases were confirmed based on CDC criteria requiring positive results from both ELISA and WB tests.

Main Results:

• Borrelia burgdorferi infection was diagnosed in 168 out of 606 patients (27.7%), affecting both adults and children.
• The most common neurological manifestations included polyradiculoneuropathy and encephalomyelitis; 14.8% initially presented with Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
• Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto was the predominant species identified (84%), with some cases of B. garinii, B. afzelii, and co-infections.

Conclusions:

• Lyme neuroborreliosis is a frequent condition among patients presenting with neurological diseases in Mexico.
• The study highlights the importance of considering Borrelia burgdorferi infection in the differential diagnosis of neurological disorders in this region.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for managing Lyme neuroborreliosis and preventing long-term neurological sequelae.