Lyme disease is caused by the tick-borne bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, often with co-infections by microorganisms Bartonella and Babesia.
Borrelia:
Transmission: Lyme disease is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected black-legged ticks.
Symptoms: An initial skin rash called erythema migrans, fever, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and, if untreated, more severe symptoms affecting the joints, nervous system, and other organs.
Care: Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, history of tick exposure, and laboratory tests. Treatment uses antibiotics.
Bartonella:
Transmission: Bartonella bacteria are often associated with vectors like fleas, ticks, lice, and cat scratches and bites.
Symptoms: Swollen lymph nodes, fever, and fatigue.
Care: Diagnosis uses serological tests, molecular diagnostics, and clinical evaluation. Treatment uses antibiotics.
Babesia:
Transmission: Babesia is a protozoan parasite that is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected ticks.
Symptoms: Fever, chills, fatigue, and anemia. Severe cases can occur, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Care: Diagnosis uses blood tests to detect the parasite. Treatment uses antiparasitic medications.