A research project by Joakim Bloch
Background:
In Denmark, Borrelia burgdorferi is endemic and thousands are infected each year. The
incidence peaks in childhood where neuroborreliosis (NB), e.g. meningitis and facial palsy, is the most common manifestation of disseminated disease. Despite this, systematic studies involving children with NB have been largely absent, and critical research gaps exist.
Critical research gaps in childhood neuroborreliosis
We have identified the following critical research gaps in NB
- What are the immunoinflammatory mechanisms of NB, and can these be used to ease the diagnosis of the condition?
- Is oral treatment of NB as effective as intravenous treatment in children?
- Do patients with facial palsy due to NB benefit from oral corticosteroids?
We will investigate and complete two studies addressing research gaps 1 and 2. Further, we will prepare and initiate a randomized controlled trial to carry out research gap 3 as a Ph.D. study.