Abstract
Lyme disease (LD) is caused by the spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. Humans are infected by a tick bite to the skin. This disease is a non-contagious infectious disease. It has been known since the 19th century. LD has a worldwide distribution. It is endemic in Europe, North and South America. There are case reports since 1990 in Turkey. The clinical presentation varies depending on the stage of the disease. Lyme disease is classified into three stages: early localized disease, early disseminated disease, and late disease. The main manifestation of the early stage of the disease is erythema migrans (EM). The disease affects many systems. In all of the clinical presentations, most patients with Lyme disease have resolution of their clinical symptoms when treated with appropriate antimicrobials but recurrence, chronic Lyme borreliosis or post-Lyme syndrome can also be seen. The diagnosis of LD is based on epidemiological, clinical and laboratory findings. Treatment depends on the stage of the disease. Doxycycline, amoxicillin azithromycin, cefuroxime axetil, erythromycin, ceftriaxone, cefotaxime and crystalline penicillin are used for treatment. LD can be prevented by reducing contact with ticks. There is no vaccine for the disease. J Microbiol Infect Dis 2014; Special Issue 1: S32-S40