Treatment of Lyme Disease with Arthritis or Acrodermatitis Chronica Atrophicans in Children Under 9 Years
When Lyme disease presents with arthritis or acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans (ACA) in a child under 9 years of age, a specific antibiotic regimen is required. The choice of antibiotic and route of administration depends on the child’s weight and clinical tolerability.
Clinical Scenario
A child under 9 years of age diagnosed with Lyme disease presenting with joint involvement (arthritis) or late skin manifestation (acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans). Children in this age group with these manifestations require antibiotic treatment tailored to their weight and individual suitability.
Treatment Approach (partial overview)
An oral antibiotic is the primary treatment for eligible children; when oral therapy is not suitable, an intravenous antibiotic is the specified alternative. The complete protocol — including agent selection, weight thresholds, and the full treatment course — is available via the link below.
References
DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1215
- Lyme disease with arthritis or acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans
- For children (under 12) diagnosed with Lyme disease, offer antibiotic treatment according to their symptoms as described in table 2.
- Oral amoxicillin for children, 33 kg and under: 30 mg/kg 3 times per day for 28 days
- Intravenous ceftriaxone for children under 50 kg: 80 mg/kg (up to 2 g) once per day for 28 days
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