LYME DISEASE AND CO-INFECTIONS

THE GREAT IMITATOR

Lyme Disease can masquerade as a host of illnesses.

Lyme Disease and its symptoms can occur at any age. It is most common among young children and those who work or reside in wooded areas because they are more likely to be exposed to ticks. Expanding skin rash and flu-like symptoms are the earliest symptoms seen. A circular rash may develop at the bite's site, but many individuals do not get the rash. If Lyme Disease goes undetected or is not properly treated, problems involving the skin, joints, nervous system, and heart may arise. Symptoms may appear weeks after exposure to infection, or it may take months or even years. Other symptoms may include fatigue, headache, and neck stiffness. There may be fever and chills. Swollen lymph nodes and muscle and joint pain are common. As many as 25% of patients have only flu-like symptoms and no other symptoms. Skin rashes may later appear in other areas. Pain, weakness, or numbness in the arms or legs could appear quickly. Paralysis of the facial nerves is not uncommon. Other neurological symptoms may include poor memory and difficulty concentrating. Heart problems may include palpitations, and eye problems usually include conjunctivitis or even deep tissue damage. Joint problems are common in all stages of the disease. If treatment is not started early enough late persistent Lyme Disease symptoms may include chronic fatigue, joint problems, heart symptoms, and nervous system problems.

CASE STUDY

Immune reactions and abnormalities in the “germinal centers’ cause failures to produce memory B cells and antibody-producing plasma cells - which are crucial for long-lasting immunity.