Final answer:
The symptoms described match with Lyme disease, which is a tick-borne illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. A diagnosis can be confirmed through laboratory tests, and treatment usually involves antibiotics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The symptoms described by the student can be indicative of Lyme disease, a tick-borne illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. The absence of a rash does not rule out Lyme disease, as up to 30% of infected individuals may not develop a rash. Other symptoms such as myalgia (muscle pain), fever, headache, and decreased platelets and white blood cell counts are consistent with Lyme disease.
The diagnosis of Lyme disease can be confirmed through laboratory tests, including antibody tests. Treatment for Lyme disease usually involves a course of antibiotics, such as doxycycline.