Lyme disease: Causes, symptoms, treatment options of this tick-borne illness

Lyme disease advances to the late disseminated stage, affecting the nervous system and joints, causing long-term complications like Lyme arthritis and neurological issues such as memory loss, numbness, and difficulty concentrating (Image: Canva)

New research published in mBio, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology, reveals that the enzyme BbLDH is essential for Borrelia burgdorferi’s survival and infection. This discovery paves the way for targeted treatments for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses using genus-specific inhibitors. Lyme disease is an infectious condition caused by the spirochete bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks.

If left untreated, Lyme disease can progress from mild flu-like symptoms to severe neurological, cardiac, and musculoskeletal complications.

Symptoms of Lyme disease:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans.  If left untreated, the infection can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system, leading to more severe complications. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with appropriate antibiotics are crucial to prevent progression of the disease.

Also read | What is Lyme disease, the tick-borne illness that supermodel Bella Hadid suffers from?

The disease progresses in stages, each affecting different systems in the body. The early localised stage (3–30 days after a tick bite) is often marked by a bull’s-eye rash (erythema migrans), fatigue, fever, and muscle aches. If untreated, the bacteria spread through the bloodstream, leading to the early disseminated stage, where symptoms can include severe headaches, heart palpitations, dizziness, and joint pain.

Additionally, in some cases, Lyme disease advances to the late disseminated stage, affecting the nervous system and joints, causing long-term complications like Lyme arthritis and neurological issues such as memory loss, numbness, and difficulty concentrating. The variability of symptoms makes diagnosis challenging, often delaying treatment.

Current treatment approach and challenges:

Currently, Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics like doxycycline, but some patients develop post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS) with lingering symptoms. Late-stage cases may need prolonged treatment, increasing antibiotic resistance risks. More targeted therapies are needed.

New research:

A study from Virginia Commonwealth University, published in mBio, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology, found that Borrelia burgdorferi relies on lactate dehydrogenase (BbLDH) for survival. Blocking BbLDH stops its growth, making it a promising drug target. “BbLDH can serve as an ideal target for developing genus-specific inhibitors to treat and prevent Lyme disease,” says lead researcher Dr. Chunhao (Chris) Li. This discovery could lead to treatments that target B. burgdorferi without harming beneficial bacteria, moving away from broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Lyme disease treatment (future)

With Lyme disease cases on the rise and current treatments facing limitations, the new research offers hope for more effective solutions. By targeting B. burgdorferi at its metabolic weak point, scientists could develop treatments that not only remove the infection but also reduce the risk of long-term complications. As research advances, the goal is to create therapies that provide faster recovery, fewer side effects, and better protection against Lyme disease, ultimately improving outcomes for patients.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.