Lyme disease: the latest great imitator.

Lyme disease is caused by the spirochete B. burgdorferi. Like its counterpart syphilis, it causes multisystem disease particularly affecting the skin, nervous system, heart and musculoskeletal system. It is endemic in several areas of the United States as well as in Europe. The prompt recognition of this disease and its diverse manifestations should lead to early treatment and resolution. Prevention is aimed at avoidance of the tick vector.