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May 10, 2023
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May 22, 2023
TRENDING WELLNESS TOPIC: LYME DISEASE
What is the problem?
Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne illness in the United States and is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected black-legged tick. Tick exposure can happen anytime but is more common during warmer months (April – September). Recent estimates suggest that approximately 476,000 people in the United States may get Lyme disease yearly. Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migraines. There can be difficulty with the diagnosis of skin lesions in individuals of color. Most cases of Lyme disease can be treated successfully within a few weeks of antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system. Therefore, accurate and timely diagnosis of acute tick-borne disease is very important. Patients can sometimes have symptoms lasting for more than 6 months after they finish treatment, called Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). Healthcare professionals should know how to counsel patients on managing these symptoms.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the many different appearances of the erythema migrans rash of Lyme disease
- Describe the current criteria and tests used for the diagnosis of the different stages of Lyme disease
- State the recommended antibiotics and duration of therapy for the different manifestations and stages of Lyme disease
- Identify the challenges to the diagnosis and treatment of Post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome
CLICK HERE to download a PDF file featuring information gaps, potential needs, and references for this topic.
If your medical staff needs an update on diagnosing and treating patients with lyme disease, consider contacting our office to book a speaker at 877-505-4777 or info@speakersnetwork.com.
info@speakersnetwork.com
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