Borrelia burgdorferi
Borrelia burgdorferi
Borrelia burgdorferi (pronunciation: bor-REL-ee-uh burg-dorf-ER-eye) is a bacterial species of the spirochete class of the Borrelia genus. It is known for being the primary cause of Lyme disease, a vector-borne infectious disease transmitted by ticks.
Etymology
The name Borrelia burgdorferi is derived from the scientist Amédée Borrel who first documented the nature of spirochetes, and Willy Burgdorfer, the researcher who discovered the bacterium.
Description
Borrelia burgdorferi is a Gram-negative, spiral-shaped bacterium. It is a microaerophile, meaning it requires low levels of oxygen to survive. The bacterium is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks or western black-legged ticks.
Pathogenesis
Upon entering the human body, Borrelia burgdorferi can cause Lyme disease, which manifests in stages. Early symptoms include fever, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the joints, heart, and nervous system, leading to more severe symptoms.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of Borrelia burgdorferi infection is typically based on symptoms and the possibility of exposure to infected ticks. Laboratory testing can confirm the diagnosis. Treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics.
Related Terms
- Spirochete
- Borrelia
- Lyme disease
- Ixodes scapularis
- Ixodes pacificus
- Erythema migrans
- Gram-negative bacteria
- Microaerophile
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Borrelia burgdorferi
- Wikipedia's article - Borrelia burgdorferi
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