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Date of Award
Spring 2025
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Diana Hawthorne, PA-C
Abstract
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi with approximately 30,000 new cases diagnosed annually since its discovery in 1977. Predominantly found in the Northeast United States, Lyme disease is often characterized by an erythema migrans rash and can cause fatigue, joint pain, and more severe symptoms as it progresses including Bell’s palsy and meningitis. Research has shown that even with treatment, typically with oral doxycycline, an estimated 10% of Lyme cases will have residual effects. Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) is often associated with chronic fatigue, cognitive effects, pain, and effects on sleep. The average onset of PTLDS is about six months after completion of antibiotic treatment and can last indefinitely. Despite the potentially devastating effects of this condition, there is currently minimal guidance on diagnosis and treatment of PTLDS.
Recommended Citation
Wolf, Gabrielle, "Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prognosis of Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome" (2025). Capstone Showcase. 3.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2025/pa/3
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prognosis of Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi with approximately 30,000 new cases diagnosed annually since its discovery in 1977. Predominantly found in the Northeast United States, Lyme disease is often characterized by an erythema migrans rash and can cause fatigue, joint pain, and more severe symptoms as it progresses including Bell’s palsy and meningitis. Research has shown that even with treatment, typically with oral doxycycline, an estimated 10% of Lyme cases will have residual effects. Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) is often associated with chronic fatigue, cognitive effects, pain, and effects on sleep. The average onset of PTLDS is about six months after completion of antibiotic treatment and can last indefinitely. Despite the potentially devastating effects of this condition, there is currently minimal guidance on diagnosis and treatment of PTLDS.