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Am Fam Physician. 2008;77(5):700-704

AAN Releases Recommendations for Treating Lyme Disease Neuroborreliosis

Guideline source: American Academy of Neurology

Literature search described? Yes

Evidence rating system used? Yes

Published source: Neurology, July 3, 2007

Lyme disease is a multisystem, tick-borne infection that often affects the nervous system (neuroborreliosis). Although guidelines are available for the treatment of general Lyme disease, the best treatment option for neuroborreliosis is unclear. The Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) convened an expert panel to review the literature and determine the following: (1) which antimicrobial agents are effective or ineffective, (2) whether different regimens are preferred for different manifestations, (3) what duration of therapy is needed, and (4) whether prolonged regimens are more beneficial.

The subcommittee concluded that parenteral penicillin, ceftriaxone (Rocephin), cefotaxime (Claforan), and oral doxycycline (Vibramycin) are probably safe and effective therapies for neuroborreliosis without parenchymal involvement. Oral amoxicillin and cefuroxime (Ceftin) are alternatives to doxycycline, although research on their use is lacking. Parenteral regimens are usually used to treat neuroborreliosis; however, doxycycline may be as effective in patients with some neuroborreliosis-related diseases (Table 1).

The rightsholder did not grant rights to reproduce this item in electronic media. For the missing item, see the original print version of this publication.

Prolonged courses of antibiotics do not improve outcomes in patients with neuroborreliosis and may be associated with adverse effects; therefore, prolonged courses are not recommended. Table 2 presents antimicrobial agents and dosages used to treat neuroborreliosis.

The subcommittee recommends future research to further clarify the best treatment regimens for neuroborreliosis.

The rightsholder did not grant rights to reproduce this item in electronic media. For the missing item, see the original print version of this publication.

Coverage of guidelines from other organizations does not imply endorsement by AFP or the AAFP.

This series is coordinated by Michael J. Arnold, MD, associate medical editor.

A collection of Practice Guidelines published in AFP is available at https://www.aafp.org/afp/practguide.

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