Diagnostic delay in patients diagnosed with Lyme carditis presenting with cardiac symptoms

In this case report, we describe two previously healthy young males who presented with cardiac symptoms suggestive of Lyme carditis (LC). LC-associated arrhythmia is a potentially fatal complication of Lyme disease, which typically occurs during the early disseminated and late stages. In high endemic areas a high degree of suspicion is vital to avoid misdiagnosis and delayed treatment, and to prevent long-term complications of disseminated infection and potentially fatal outcome.

Learning objective

Lyme carditis (LC) can present with a wide array of symptoms. The following two cases illustrate the diverse clinical manifestations of LC, as well as the potential for ‘doctor's delay’ in diagnosing patients with LC.