What Is Cutaneous Anthrax?

Cutaneous anthrax is a rare but serious bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis, the bacterium that causes anthrax. It primarily affects the skin and is the most common form of anthrax in humans. It is contracted when the bacteria come into contact with broken skin or mucous membranes. While the disease can be severe, it is treatable, and early detection is crucial to prevent complications.

What Causes Cutaneous Anthrax?

Cutaneous anthrax is caused by exposure to the spores of Bacillus anthracis, which can survive in soil for long periods. Humans usually become infected by direct contact with infected animals, animal products, or contaminated materials. The infection commonly occurs in individuals who work with livestock or animal products such as wool, hides, and leather. Additionally, it can be transmitted through handling contaminated meat or animal carcasses.

What Are the Symptoms of Cutaneous Anthrax?

The symptoms of cutaneous anthrax typically appear within 1 to 7 days of exposure. The infection begins at the site where the spores have entered the skin and develops in stages. The common symptoms include:

• Itchy bump or pimple-like lesion at the site of infection
• Swelling around the lesion
• Development of an ulcer: The bump turns into an open sore or ulcer with a black center (a characteristic sign of anthrax).
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue and general malaise
• Headache and muscle aches
• Swelling of the lymph nodes near the infection site

In severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, leading to more serious complications.

How Is Cutaneous Anthrax Diagnosed?

Diagnosing cutaneous anthrax is based on clinical signs and a history of potential exposure to the bacteria. Your doctor may conduct the following tests to confirm the diagnosis:

• Physical examination: Identifying characteristic symptoms, such as the black eschar (ulcer) with a raised edge.
• Blood tests: To detect Bacillus anthracis bacteria or evidence of an infection.
• Culture: A sample from the lesion or blood may be taken to culture the bacteria.
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): A test that detects the genetic material of the bacteria.

How Is Cutaneous Anthrax Treated?

Treatment for cutaneous anthrax typically involves antibiotics, and the infection is highly treatable if caught early. The most commonly used antibiotics include:

• Ciprofloxacin (a fluoroquinolone)
• Doxycycline (a tetracycline antibiotic)
• Penicillin (if the bacteria are sensitive to it)

If the infection is detected and treated early, the prognosis is generally very good, with most individuals recovering without complications. Antibiotic treatment is usually continued for 60 days to ensure the complete eradication of the bacteria and prevent the spread of infection.

In rare, severe cases where the infection progresses, additional treatments or hospitalization may be required. In cases where the infection spreads to the bloodstream (sepsis), more aggressive treatment, including intravenous antibiotics, may be needed.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Cutaneous Anthrax?

When treated properly, cutaneous anthrax does not usually result in long-term complications. However, if left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, causing life-threatening conditions such as blood poisoning (sepsis) or meningitis. Even with treatment, individuals may experience scarring at the site of the infection or persistent swelling of the lymph nodes.

How Can Cutaneous Anthrax Be Prevented?

To prevent cutaneous anthrax, it is important to take precautions when handling animals or animal products that may be infected with Bacillus anthracis. Here are some preventive measures:

1. Avoid contact with infected animals: Individuals who work with livestock or animal products, such as farmers, veterinarians, or leather workers, should take extra precautions to avoid exposure.
2. Use protective clothing and equipment: Wear gloves, masks, and protective clothing when handling potentially infected animals or materials, especially in areas where anthrax is known to be prevalent.
3. Vaccination: There is a vaccine available for individuals at high risk of exposure, such as laboratory workers or people working with animals that may be infected with anthrax.
4. Proper handling of animal products: Animal hides, wool, or other products should be properly treated before use to kill any potential spores.

What Are the Risks of Cutaneous Anthrax?

If treated promptly, cutaneous anthrax is rarely fatal, and the risk of severe complications is low. However, if left untreated, the bacteria can spread to the bloodstream and lead to systemic infection. This can cause severe sepsis, shock, and potentially even death. The risk of severe complications is particularly high in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or cancer, or those undergoing chemotherapy.