Unlike almost all other life forms, this bacterium does not need iron to survive. Instead, it uses manganese, allowing it to bypass the body's natural defense of "starving" invaders of iron. 3. Symptoms to Watch For
This spirochete causes a characteristic annular rash, arthritis, carditis, and in late stages, encephalopathy. National Institutes of Health (.gov) Why Is Lyme Disease So Hard to Treat?
Most humans are infected by nymphs —immature ticks about the size of a poppy seed, which are incredibly difficult to spot. 2. A "Smart" Bacterium borrelia burgdorferi
It can change its outer surface proteins to "camouflage" itself, staying one step ahead of your body's antibodies.
Borrelia burgdorferi has evolved several survival tactics that make it a formidable opponent for the immune system: Unlike almost all other life forms, this bacterium
Transmission usually requires the tick to be attached for 36 to 48 hours or more.
If left untreated, the infection can move through different stages: Borrelia Burgdorferi - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH Symptoms to Watch For This spirochete causes a
Its spiral shape allows it to "drill" through dense tissues, like cartilage and nerves, where other bacteria might get stuck.