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Anthrax

A zoonotic infection caused by Bacillus anthracis, developing through contact with animal products.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Anthrax?

Anthrax is a zoonotic infection caused by Bacillus anthracis, a Gram-positive, spore-forming rod-shaped bacterium. The bacterial spores can survive in soil for decades and are transmitted to humans from infected animals or their products.

There are three clinical forms: cutaneous anthrax (most common, painless necrotic ulcer on the skin from animal product contact), inhalation anthrax (hemorrhagic mediastinitis from spore inhalation), and gastrointestinal anthrax (after consumption of infected meat).

Cases of cutaneous anthrax can be seen in livestock-raising regions of Türkiye. With early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment, cutaneous anthrax has a high recovery rate; inhalation and gastrointestinal forms have high mortality.

Symptoms

Painless red papule in cutaneous form
Vesicle from papule, then black necrotic eschar ('coal-black' lesion)
Marked edema around the lesion
Regional lymphadenopathy
Shortness of breath, chest pain, septic shock in inhalation form
Abdominal pain, bloody vomiting, and diarrhea in gastrointestinal form
High fever and weakness (systemic involvement)

Risk Factors

Livestock and slaughterhouse workers
Contact with infected animals or raw products
Workers handling wool, leather, and hair
Consumption of undercooked infected meat
Rural regions with livestock raising
Bioterrorism risk (spore form)
Veterinarians and veterinary technicians

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Black necrotic skin lesion after animal contact
  • Painless red lesion with marked edema
  • Shortness of breath, chest pain after animal contact
  • Bloody vomiting or diarrhea with high fever
  • History of risky occupation and rural area

Treatment Methods

01
Penicillin or doxycycline for cutaneous form
02
Ciprofloxacin + clindamycin + another agent for systemic form
03
Antitoxin therapy (raxibacumab, obiltoxaximab)
04
Intensive care support in severe cases
05
Animal vaccination and hygiene (primary prevention)
06
Post-exposure prophylaxis (ciprofloxacin for 60 days)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.