Which stage of Lyme disease is characterized by erythema migrans?

Erythema migrans is a distinctive skin lesion commonly associated with the early stage of Lyme disease, specifically Stage 1. This lesion typically appears as a circular, expanding rash that often has a central clearing, giving it a "bull's-eye" appearance. It usually develops at the site of a tick bite approximately 3 to 30 days after exposure to an infected tick.

At this early stage, the rash can be accompanied by systemic flu-like symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, muscle and joint aches, and lymphadenopathy, which further supports the diagnosis of Lyme disease. Recognizing erythema migrans is crucial because it signifies early Lyme disease that, if treated promptly with appropriate antibiotics, can prevent progression to later stages of the disease that might involve more severe complications, such as neurologic or cardiac involvement.

The other stages of Lyme disease encompass different clinical manifestations, but it is during Stage 1 that erythema migrans is characteristically presented, marking it as an essential sign for early detection and management.