Lyme Disease

What is another name for lyme disease?

Lyme borreliosis

What is the etiologic agent of lyme disease?

Borrelia burgdorferi

What type of bacteria is Borrelia burgdorferi?

gram negative spirochete

What species are affected by lyme disease?

all mammals and some avian species

deer and rodents are reservoirs

Is lyme disease zoonotic?

yes

Where can lyme disease be found?

forested areas in northeastern, north central, and mid-atlantic states of the U.S

sporadically documented in Europe and Asia

The following clinical signs of dogs match which disease:

• no clinical signs for most

• fever

• lethargy

• intermittent shiting leg lameness

• renal disease if severe

lyme disease

Do rodents and wildlife exhibit clinical signs of lyme disease?

No

The following clinical signs in humans match which disease:

• antemortem erythema migrans lesions surrounded by bullseye rash

• fever

• headache

• fatigue

• muscle/joint aches

lyme disease

The following clinical signs in horses match which disease:

• neurologic signs

• uveitis

• cutaneous lymphoma

lyme disease

What is the morbidity/mortality associated with lyme disease?

morbidity: 5-50% in animals and humans

mortality: rare in animals and humans

What diagnostic tests can be used for lyme disease?

serologic testing for B burgdorferi anitbodies via ELISA or fluorescence assays

How is lyme disease transmitted?

bite of infected Ixodes tick species

Can lyme disease be spread from pet to owner?

No

How long must a tick be attached to the host for lyme disease transmission?

24-48 hours usually

How do we treat lyme disease?

removal of tick

antibiotics if clinical signs are present - usually doxycycline

pain management if needed

immunosuppressive therapy for severe autoimmune cases

How do control lyme disease?

use of acaricides

lyme vaccine

tick checks after being in wooded areas

Is lyme disease reportable?

Yes