Cutaneous anthrax

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Cutaneous anthrax

Cutaneous Anthrax

Skin layers

Cutaneous anthrax is an infection of the skin caused by direct contact with the bacteria Bacillus anthracis.

Anthrax - skin

Anthrax is caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis. While anthrax commonly affects hoofed animals such as sheep and goats, humans may get sick from anthrax, too. The most common type of anthrax infection is cutaneous anthrax, an infection of the skin. Cutaneous infections account for 95% of all anthrax cases worldwide.

Cutaneous anthrax occurs after the bacteria touches a cut or scrape on the skin. After about two weeks, an itchy sore develops, similar to an insect bite. This sore may blister and form a black ulcer, which is usually painless. It is usually surrounded by significant swelling.  A scar often develops, and then dries and falls off within two weeks. Some patients have painful lymph nodes.

In some cases, the infection can spread through the bloodstream and become fatal. However, death is extremely rare in the majority of individuals who receive prompt, appropriate treatment.

Historically, the main risk factor for acquiring cutaneous anthrax is contact with animal hides or hair, bone products, and wool, as well as contact with infected animals. Therefore, those most at risk for anthrax include farm workers, veterinarians, and tannery and wool workers.

Anthrax is a potential agent for use as a biological weapon or for bio-terrorism. In 2001, bioterrorist activities involving the U.S. Postal Service infected 22 people with anthrax; 7 survivors had confirmed cutaneous anthrax disease.While at least 17 nations are believed to have a biological weapons program, it is unknown how many nations or groups are working with anthrax. Most bio-terrorism experts have concluded that it is technologically difficult to use anthrax effectively as a weapon on a large scale.

Review Date: 06/17/2005
Reviewed By: Rocio Hurtado, M.D., Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.