Pathway to New Treatments for Lyme Infection-Associated Chronic Illnesses

This Consensus Study Report details the assessment of Lyme infection-associated chronic illnesses (IACI) conducted by a committee of experts convened by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The report outlines the pressing need for effective diagnostics and treatments for Lyme IACI, which affects many individuals following Lyme disease. It identifies the challenges in validating disease mechanisms and treatment efficacy, emphasizing the importance of patient-centered treatment development and the need for rigorous clinical studies. The committee recommends standardizing definitions and outcome measures to facilitate research and improve collaboration among researchers. It also suggests leveraging biobanks and new technologies to enhance data collection and analysis. The report advocates for a coordinated research approach that draws lessons from similar conditions like Long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, aiming to streamline efforts and maximize funding impact. Overall, the report presents a strategic vision for advancing research and treatment options for Lyme IACI.