Is a bullseye rash a sign of Lyme disease, and what should I do next?

Doctor's Answers 1

Thank you for the question. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by the Borrelia bacteria and is transmitted through tick bites. It often presents with an annular (circular) red rash that can appear like a bullseye rash.

However, there are other skin conditions like annular erythema that can present with a similar looking rash. So it is difficult to say with certainty that what you noted was due to Lyme disease.

Lyme disease is rare and uncommon in Singapore and more prevalent in overseas countries.

If Lyme disease is suspected, this can be confirmed by doing serological investigation. This is simply done by doing a a blood test.

If Lyme disease is left untreated, there can be serious consequences affecting the joints, nerves and heart and so treatment is warranted.

Lyme disease can be treated with a course of oral antibiotics such as doxycycline.

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