Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction

noun

: an increase in the symptoms of a spirochetal disease (as syphilis, Lyme disease, or relapsing fever) occurring in some persons when treatment with spirocheticidal drugs is started

called also Herxheimer reaction

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Cite this Entry

“Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/Jarisch-Herxheimer%20reaction. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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