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Bones and joints

When arthritis is related to Lyme disease

If Lyme disease goes untreated, it can resurface months later with joint swelling and pain.

By , Staff Writer
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Lyme disease, transmitted by deer ticks, may not be detected early on. If left untreated, the infection can lead to Lyme arthritis, marked by joint swelling, often in the knee. Most cases respond to antibiotics, though some require additional treatment.

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About the Author

photo of Lynne Christensen

Lynne Christensen, Staff Writer

Lynne Christensen is a staff writer who contributes articles to Harvard Health Publishing’s flagship website and its four newsletters: the Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Heart Letter, Harvard Women’s Health Watch, and Harvard Men’s Health Watch. She … See Full Bio
View all posts by Lynne Christensen

About the Reviewer

photo of Allen Steere, MD

Allen Steere, MD, Contributor

Dr. Allen Steere serves as the Morse Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, and as a member of the rheumatology division at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). His research has focused on the elucidation of Lyme … See Full Bio
View all posts by Allen Steere, MD
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