Comprehensive review of Lyme disease in Ecuador with a detailed case study of a patient from Esmeraldas

Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is the most prevalent tick-borne illness worldwide, yet its presence in Ecuador remains under-researched and under-diagnosed. This case report highlights the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and treatment of Lyme disease in a 49-year-old female patient from Atacames, Ecuador. The patient presented to the outpatient clinic with pain in the right upper limb, particularly in the elbow joint, accompanied by a history of tick infestation. Serological tests, including ELISA showing elevadet IgM titers. The patient showed significant improvement with a two-week course of doxycycline. This case emphasizes the need for increased clinical awareness and research on Lyme disease in Ecuador to enhance diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiological reporting.