[Lyme borreliosis in adults].

BACKGROUND: Lyme borreliosis is a MULTISYSTEM: tick-borne infection caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. We present a survey of clinical stages, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of Lyme borreliosis in adults.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The article is based on literature retrieved through database searches and own experience.

RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION: In Norway, Lyme borreliosis is most prevalent in coastal areas from the south and up to Trøndelag. Lyme disease can be classified into three stages; localised stage, and early and late disseminated stages. A laboratory gold standard does not exist, so the diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical manifestations and indirect detection of the bacteria, most often specific antibodies. Antibody results must be interpreted with caution. No medication is needed after a tick bite, but all manifestations of Lyme borreliosis should be treated with antibiotics according to guidelines. The prognosis is generally good. Post Lyme disease with persistent symptoms after borreliosis is a controversial condition. No studies have demonstrated persistent infection with borrelia bacteria in patients with chronic complaints after adequate antibiotic treatment, and additional antibiotic treatment does not improve quality of life in these patients.