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Tick bites during pregnancy. A perspective.
One would think that there would be substantial scientific evidence indicating the best treatment options for pregnant women who have a tick bite. Unfortunately, there is not. In their article, Smith and colleagues address the question: “If the health care provider decides to recommend antibiotic prophylaxis for a pregnant woman with a tick bite, what are the choices?” [1]
Babesia in dogs – implications for people
A dog can be man’s best friend, particularly when it comes to helping identify the risk of tick-borne diseases for humans. The true spread of Babesia may currently be underestimated, under-reported, and untreated, writes Mahachi and colleagues in the journal Parasites Vectors.¹ But new research indicates that hunting dogs can offer insight into the distribution of Babesia in the Southern and Western USA.
Cavalier attitude towards Lyme infection
Some medical professionals and their patients have dismissed Lyme disease, believing the prevalence and potential damage a Lyme infection can cause is over-exaggerated. But what happens if your family is directly affected? A researcher from the University of Pennsylvania shares his story “Lemons and Lyme” in the Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society.
Could POTS and Lyme disease patients suffer impaired cognitive function when standing?
Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a chronic form of orthostatic intolerance which affects circulation or blood flow. It’s typically triggered when a person suddenly stands up after lying down. The primary symptoms include lightheadedness, fainting and an uncomfortable, rapid increase in heartbeat.
No evidence single doxycycline dosage for Lyme disease prevention is effective in children
A recent article by Carriveau and colleagues recommends that a single dose of doxycycline should be prescribed to children following a tick bite to prevent Lyme disease.¹ Unfortunately, there is no evidence to support this recommendation.
Disseminated Lyme disease more likely in those with weakened immune system
Individuals with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to developing infections, such as COVID-19. A review study has also found that people with compromised immune systems are at a greater risk of developing disseminated Lyme disease. The authors of “Erythema Migrans: Course and Outcome in Patients Treated With Rituximab” investigated patients diagnosed with Lyme disease, who were also taking Rituximab, a medication known to impair immunity. [1]
New treatments for Lyme disease on the horizon?
Patients with Lyme disease are typically treated with a standard antibiotic, which may include doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime, for a 2 to 4 week period. However, studies have shown that between 36-63% of treated patients continue to suffer with persistent symptoms. [1]
Central sensitization syndrome worsens Lyme disease symptoms?
Chronic pain, debilitating fatigue, and heightened sensory disturbances are common in Lyme disease patients. In their article, “Post-Treatment Lyme Syndrome and Central Sensitization,” Batheja and colleagues suggest that, in some cases, such symptoms may be due to central sensitization syndrome (CSS). [1]
Lyme disease increases risk of atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation, the most common type of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), can increase your risk of strokes, heart disease or other heart-related complications. In many cases, atrial fibrillation is associated with a history of cardiac inflammation, writes Szymanska et al. in their article “History of Lyme Disease as a Predictor of Atrial Fibrillation.”
Late stage Lyme disease treatment might include azlocillin in the future.
A study by Stanford Medicine indicates that a drug called azlocillin “completely kills off the disease-causing bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi at the onset of the illness.” [1] In addition, the authors say, azlocillin “could be effective for treating [Lyme disease] patients infected with drug-tolerant bacteria that may cause lingering symptoms.”
