The Challenges of Diagnosing Disseminated Lyme Disease in a Patient with CLL

Abstract

The diagnosis of Lyme disease may be a challenge in patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. In relying on detection of antibodies in the serum for diagnosis we are presented with a problem in our patients with CLL in whom there is hypogammaglobulinemia secondary to B-cell malfunction. We suggest the use of PCR in aiding in diagnosis of Lyme disease in patients with CLL.