Borrelia burgdorferi is a type of bacteria that causes Lyme disease, a tick-borne illness. It is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. The bacteria can lead to various symptoms, including fever, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans.
Once inside the body, Borrelia burgdorferi can spread to different tissues and organs, potentially causing more severe complications if left untreated. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Early treatment with antibiotics is effective in most cases, helping to prevent long-term health issues.