What is Lyme disease?

Lyme borreliosis is the most common tick-borne disease in the Czech Republic. It is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato.

When should I get tested?

Clinical symptoms are very diverse. After infection, an acute phase occurs within a few weeks – up to half of patients develop erythema migrans (a red spot with a paler center) at the site of the tick bite. Common symptoms include fatigue, fever, headache and other flu-like symptoms.

In some individuals, the disease may progress to a chronic stage. This most commonly manifests as joint problems, skin issues, headaches and fatigue.

What will the examination tell us?

Antibody testing should be performed at least 3-6 weeks after the tick bite. We determine IgM antibodies (may be a sign of early infection) and IgG (may indicate past illness or late phase of infection). We issue the result with a comment from a professional, but the finding must always be interpreted with regard to the clinical condition and patient history.

What is the treatment?

Further treatment steps must always be agreed upon with your attending physician.