Anxiety and depression in patients infected with Borrelia burgdorferi

Abstract Background and objectives The aim of the study was to evaluate the symptoms of depression and anxiety associated with fibromyalgia and erythema migrans in Borrelia burgdorferi infection. Methods A group of 87 patients with clinically and serologically diagnosed B. burgdorferi (mean age 53.37) was formed. They were examined using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Beck's Depression Inventory and various immunological tests, as well as for fibromyalgia. A demographic survey with additional questions was also administered. Results Our results confirm that fibromyalgia is associated with higher anxiety and depression symptoms. It is possible that serological markers of infection could act as indicators of depression level in patients with B. burgdorferi. The examined patients with B. burgdorferi infection reported a low prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms. Conclusions The studied population is not very likely to experience neurologically-determined mood disorders, taking into consideration the above-mentioned results.