What it means
The medical name is erythema migrans, "spreading redness". It grows outward over days from the site of a tick bite, usually 3 to 30 days after the bite, and is the classic first sign of Lyme diseaseLYM dih-ZEEZAn infection with Borrelia bacteria, spread to people by the bite of an infected tick.Full entry . Not every such rash has a clear center; many are evenly red.
For the nurse
Ask about outdoor activity and tick bites, and measure the rash or mark its edge. Teach tick prevention: repellent, long sleeves and pants, and checking the body for ticks after being outdoors.
At a glance
| Also written | bullseye rash, erythema migrans |
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Related terms
Lyme disease
An infection with Borrelia bacteria, spread to people by the bite of an infected tick.