Management of suspected Lyme borreliosis: experience from an outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy service

White, B., Seaton, A. and Evans, T.J. (2013) Management of suspected Lyme borreliosis: experience from an outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy service. QJM: An International Journal of Medicine, 106(2), pp. 133-138. (doi: 10.1093/qjmed/hcs189) (PMID:23070203)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

Objectives: Lyme borreliosis (LB) is the most common human tick-borne infection in Europe and the USA. In this study we set out to analyse the outcome of patients treated for Lyme disease via outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT) and the appropriateness of this treatment using current guidelines. Methods: This was a retrospective review of all patients with suspected LB managed via OPAT in Glasgow in 2000–11. Results: Of 72 patients treated for suspected LB, 35 patients (49%) were treated in accordance with guidelines and 36 (50%) were treated with no specific guidelines. A definite improvement was seen in 20 patients (28%). Adverse reactions were documented in 29 (40%) patients with neutropenia, and mild liver function derangement was most commonly observed. Conclusions: These results show the complexity of translating well-substantiated regimens from clinical trials to actual clinical practice. OPAT was an effective way of administering parenteral therapy for Lyme disease but should not be undertaken lightly due to the rate of adverse events and low rates of success in certain patient groups seen in this study. In view of this, stricter criteria for inclusion to OPAT in line with published guidance should be applied to minimize patient harm and optimize success.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Evans, Professor Tom
Authors: White, B., Seaton, A., and Evans, T.J.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
Journal Name:QJM: An International Journal of Medicine
Publisher:Oxford University Press
ISSN:1460-2725

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record