Lyme Arthritis in a Military Dependent Child transferred from Japan

Lyme arthritis is the most common manifestation of late Lyme disease in children. Lyme disease is known to be endemic to Japan, but is rarely diagnosed. We report the identification and successful treatment of an adolescent male with Lyme arthritis who recently relocated with his family from a US Military base in Japan to Virginia. This case highlights the importance of obtaining a travel history from military members and their families who frequently relocate due to military orders. Military medical providers must be aware of tropical and travel-related illnesses and infections that may have been acquired at a prior duty station.