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Anthrax
Medical Questions » Anthrax
| Name: Anthrax |
| Also known as: |
| A skin infection common of farmers, meat workers, veterinarians and others who come into close contact with animals. |
Causes of Anthrax
The bacterium Bacillus anthracis which is found in cattle, horses, sheep, goats and pigs. Caught by bacteria entering the body through scratches and grazes, or rarely by inhalation into the lungs. |
Symptoms of Anthrax
A sore appears at the site of entry, then nearby lymph nodes become inflamed, a fever develops, followed by nausea, vomiting, headaches and collapse. |
Tests for Anthrax
Diagnosis confirmed by microscopic examination of smears from the skin sores, or from sputum samples. Specific blood tests may also detect the disease. |
Treatment for Anthrax
Antibiotics (eg. penicillin or tetracycline) by injection.
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Complications of Anthrax of its treatment
If the infection enters the lung, a severe form of pneumonia results. May also spread into the bloodstream. |
Likely Outcome of Anthrax
Treatment clears skin form of the disease effectively in most cases. Anthrax pneumonia is very serious, and a significant proportion of these patients die. |
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