[Erythema migrans disease. 3 case examples with neurologic complications]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology
• Neurology

Background:

• Erythema migrans disease is a tickborne spirochetosis with seasonal incidence, closely resembling Lyme disease.
• Early symptoms are nonspecific, followed by a characteristic skin rash (erythema migrans).

Observation:

• Neurological complications, such as lymphocytic meningoradiculitis (Garin-Bujadoux-Bannwarth syndrome), can occur.
• Three pediatric cases highlighted the diverse clinical presentations of erythema migrans disease, including its neurological manifestations.

Findings:

• Serological tests for spirochete antibodies aid in diagnosing late-stage complications, especially when tick bites or the characteristic rash are not recalled.
• Antibiotic therapy, particularly penicillin or tetracycline, is effective for early-stage treatment.

Implications:

• Prompt diagnosis and antibiotic treatment can prevent or mitigate severe complications of erythema migrans disease.
• Understanding the varied clinical spectrum is crucial for timely intervention, even in the absence of typical signs.