Lyme Science Blog

Surveillance Criteria vs Clinical Diagnosis in Lyme Disease Lyme disease diagnosis often reveals a tension between surveillance criteria and clinical diagnosis. Public health definitions were designed to track disease patterns across populations, while clinicians must evaluate individual patients whose symptoms and laboratory findings may evolve over time. Surveillance definitions help public health agencies monitor disease […]

Rare but Serious Complications of Lyme Disease Lyme disease is often considered a treatable illness—but can it be fatal? While most people recover with timely antibiotics, there are rare and serious complications that can become life-threatening if the infection is not recognized early. Understanding these risks can help patients and clinicians recognize warning signs and

Can Lyme Disease Be Fatal? Case Reports of Fatal Tick-Borne Infections Fatal tick-borne disease cases are uncommon but important reminders of the dangers of missed or delayed diagnosis. Lyme disease and related infections such as Babesia and emerging viruses can lead to severe complications when early symptoms are overlooked. Although uncommon, deaths from Lyme disease

Types of Lyme Disease Tests Explained There are several types of Lyme disease tests used in clinical practice, including the ELISA, Western blot, PCR, and culture tests. While these laboratory tests can support the diagnosis, Lyme disease is often best diagnosed clinically based on symptoms, exposure history, and physical findings. Different Lyme disease tests measure

Articles on Lyme Disease and Pregnancy Lyme disease during pregnancy raises important questions about diagnosis, treatment, and the potential effects of infection on the developing fetus. While research remains limited, case reports and clinical observations suggest that timely recognition and appropriate treatment are important for maternal and infant health. The following articles explore related topics

Eye Symptoms of Lyme Disease Eye symptoms of Lyme disease can occur when infection affects the nervous system or the structures of the eye. Some patients experience blurred vision, light sensitivity, eye pain, or other visual disturbances during the course of the illness. Visual symptoms may appear early in Lyme disease or develop later when

Gastrointestinal Symptoms of Lyme Disease Gastrointestinal symptoms of Lyme disease may occur when infection affects the digestive system or disrupts normal immune and inflammatory responses. Some patients experience nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or other digestive disturbances during Lyme illness. Digestive symptoms may appear early in infection or develop later as the disease progresses. Because gastrointestinal

Skin Symptoms of Lyme Disease Skin symptoms of Lyme disease are often the earliest signs of infection. Many patients develop rashes or other skin changes after a tick bite, although these symptoms may vary widely in appearance. The most recognized skin manifestation of Lyme disease is erythema migrans, a rash that may expand over time.