Erythema Migrans Mimicking Cervical Cellulitis with Deep Neck Infection in a Child with Lyme Disease

In the early stage of Lyme disease, atypical lesions of erythema migrans rash can develop and extend over the neck region, mimicking cervical cellulitis with deep neck infection. Here, we report a 9-year-old Taiwanese boy with a recent history of exposure to deer during his visit to Nanto County in central Taiwan. Cervical cellulitis with lymphadenitis was initially diagnosed. Erythema migrans developed in the following days and Lyme disease was finally diagnosed by a Western immunoblot test. Alertness to this unique clinical feature is required for prompt differential diagnosis of Lyme disease with a presentation of erythema migrans mimicking cervical cellulitis.

Key Words:  cervical cellulitis , childhood , erythema migrans , Lyme disease

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