Pulmonary anthrax

Pulmonary Anthrax is a form of anthrax, a serious and potentially fatal bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. This form of anthrax affects the lungs and is also known as woolsorter's disease or ragpicker's disease.

Etiology

Pulmonary anthrax is caused by inhaling spores of Bacillus anthracis. These spores can survive in the environment for a long time and are resistant to heat, cold, and drying. The spores are usually found in soil and can contaminate wool, hair, hides, leather, or bone meal products.

Symptoms

The symptoms of pulmonary anthrax usually appear within a week after exposure but can take up to 60 days to appear. Initial symptoms are similar to those of a common cold or flu, including fever, chills, fatigue, cough, and mild chest discomfort. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include severe breathing problems, shock, and often meningitis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pulmonary anthrax is based on a combination of symptoms, history of exposure, and laboratory tests. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using multiple tests to confirm a diagnosis, including blood cultures, chest X-rays, and a PCR test to detect Bacillus anthracis DNA.

Treatment

Treatment for pulmonary anthrax includes immediate hospitalization, antibiotics, and possibly respiratory support. The antibiotics ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, and penicillin are commonly used. If left untreated, pulmonary anthrax is usually fatal.

Prevention

Prevention of pulmonary anthrax involves avoiding exposure to Bacillus anthracis spores. This can be achieved by vaccinating at-risk populations, such as laboratory workers, and by treating potentially contaminated animal products. In the event of a bioterrorism attack, the CDC recommends prophylactic antibiotics for those exposed to the bacteria.

See also

• Anthrax
• Bacillus anthracis
• Bioterrorism