Perspective reflects narrow viewpoint based on inconclusive evidence

Bethesda, MD  – Members of the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society  (ILADS) highlight a newly published article entitled Perspectives on Chronic Lyme Disease, as yet  another example of the need for more dialogue between physicians, researchers and other health  professionals regarding the existence and diagnosis of chronic Lyme disease. The American Journal of  Medicine article ignores ILADS’s concerns regarding the serious health problems faced by chronic  Lyme disease patients.  

The opinion piece, authored by Philip J. Baker, cites research studies considered inconclusive by a  number of health care professionals.  The findings are based on a small number of subjects relative  to the growing number of Lyme disease cases reported annually.  Baker’s conclusions are based on  trials of fewer than 225 patients.  Yet the CDC reported 20,000 new cases of Lyme disease in 2007;  the actual number of people diagnosed with Lyme disease is estimated at 10 times this number.

ILADS has consistently challenged the peer review literature that fails to consider the severity of  chronic Lyme disease.  The Lyme disease patients enrolled in the two NIH sponsored trials  mentioned in the article were ill an average of 4.7 years with a quality of life worse than patients  with recent heart attacks and diabetes.

ILADS stresses the need for more comprehensive trials to examine the numerous innovative  antibiotic options that have been used successfully in actual practice.

ILADS believes the medical community must come together to address the needs of patients who are  suffering from the debilitating effects of chronic Lyme disease.  Only by airing different points of  view will the medical and scientific community reach a better understanding of controversial topics  such as chronic Lyme disease.

“What we have here is a failure to communicate,” noted Cameron.  “We must work together to find  answers for Lyme patients who remain severely ill.”

For more information contact Pam Kahl. pam.kahl@verbal800.com 503.284.1534