Date of Award
4-2013
Document Type
Independent Study
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Abstract
Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne disease in the United States today, and cases
continue to grow every year. Lyme disease can be challenging to diagnose due to the many
presenting symptoms. This independent study is meant to describe symptoms of Lyme Jess
traditionally discussed in medical and nursing literature when considering how and when to
~ diagnose Lyme disease. It is also meant to examine common diagnostic problems in pediatric,
maternal, and elderly populations. This was accomplished with the use of a literature review, ~ resulting in the development of a white paper and educational brochure for dissemination to the health care providers and the general public. Lyme disease presents without the well-known
"bull's eye" rash more often than providers may suspect. In some endemic areas, the most
common reason for a presenting complaint of meningitis, arthritis or facial palsies in children is
the Lyme bacteria. Elderly patients may present with neurological symptoms of Lyme disease ~that are mistaken for other neurological diagnoses. Treating these complaints with common
antibiotics and other treatments may not correctly treat Lyme disease. Therefore, health care
providers and patients need to be aware of these different symptoms to avoid delayed diagnosis
and unnecessary or costly treatments. The literature review was limited by the limited amount of
studies that focus on this particular topic. Pieces that were included focused on symptoms of
Lyme other than erythema migraines
Recommended Citation
Kersula, Blythe H., "The Many Faces of Lyme Disease" (2013). Theses and Dissertations. 4758.
https://commons.und.edu/theses/4758