Which statement best describes Lyme disease symptoms and progression?

• A. Initial symptoms include a reddish rash, fever, and headache; later may occur arthritis and nervous system issues.
• B. Lyme disease only affects the skin.
• C. Lyme disease presents with immediate severe organ failure.
• D. Lyme disease cannot affect humans.

Answer: (A)

Lyme disease typically progresses from an early localized phase to possible disseminated involvement, with a pattern that starts with a skin sign and flu-like symptoms and can spread to joints and the nervous system if not treated. The statement described captures this progression: an initial reddish rash along with fever and headache are common early signs, and if the infection isn’t addressed, later development can include arthritis and nervous system issues such as facial weakness or other neurological symptoms. This reflects how the disease can move from the skin to other body systems over time.

The other choices don’t fit: Lyme disease is not limited to the skin, it does not usually present with immediate severe organ failure, and it can affect humans.