Skin anthrax

=Skin Anthrax = Skin anthrax, also known as cutaneous anthrax, is a zoonotic infection caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It is the most common form of anthrax infection and occurs when the bacterium enters the body through a cut or abrasion on the skin. This article provides a comprehensive overview of skin anthrax, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Causes

Skin anthrax is caused by exposure to Bacillus anthracis spores, which can be found in soil, animal hides, and wool. Humans typically contract the disease through direct contact with infected animals or animal products. The spores can enter the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, leading to infection.

Symptoms

The symptoms of skin anthrax usually appear within 1 to 7 days after exposure. The infection typically begins as a small, raised bump resembling an insect bite. This bump quickly develops into a painless ulcer with a characteristic black necrotic center, known as an eschar. Other symptoms may include:

• Swelling around the sore
• Lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes)
• Fever and malaise

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of skin anthrax is based on clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. A sample from the lesion can be tested for the presence of Bacillus anthracis using:

• Gram stain
• Culture
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

Serological tests may also be used to detect antibodies against the bacterium.

Treatment

Early treatment of skin anthrax is crucial to prevent complications. Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment, with options including:

• Ciprofloxacin
• Doxycycline
• Penicillin

The duration of antibiotic therapy typically ranges from 7 to 10 days. In severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be required.

Prevention

Preventive measures for skin anthrax include:

• Avoiding contact with infected animals or animal products
• Using protective clothing and equipment when handling potentially contaminated materials
• Vaccination for individuals at high risk of exposure, such as veterinarians and laboratory workers

See Also

• Anthrax
• Zoonotic diseases
• Bacillus anthracis
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Anthrax
• World Health Organization (WHO) - Anthrax in humans and animals

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Skin anthrax

Skin anthrax is a rare disease.