Lyme borreliosis: an update for Canadian dermatologists.

BACKGROUND

Lyme borreliosis is a multisystemic tick-borne spirochetosis, which may result in dermatologic, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and neurologic manifestations.

OBJECTIVE

Patients with suspected acute Lyme borreliosis infection may be referred for urgent dermatologic review. Canadian dermatologists should be aware of the latest information regarding the diagnosis and management of Lyme borreliosis.

METHODS

This review is based on a PubMed database search combining the word "Lyme" with variations of the word "Canada." Data sources included articles from the fields of ecology, epidemiology, laboratory diagnostics, and clinical management.

CONCLUSION

In this review, the ecological basis of spirochete transmission by tick vectors is described. The latest available Canadian epidemiologic data are summarized. North American clinical manifestations of Lyme borreliosis are contrasted with European presentations. The Canadian Public Health Laboratory Network's diagnostic guidelines are summarized. Finally, treatment recommendations are outlined.