Anthrax

Definition

Anthrax is a rare infection that can be deadly. It leads to swelling, bleeding, and tissue death.

Anthrax Can Enter the Body Through the Lungs.

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Causes

Certain bacteria and its spores cause anthrax. They are found in soil and animals. The spores can get into the body:

• Through breaks in the skin
• By breathing them in
• By eating raw or undercooked meat that has spores

The spores multiply and release toxins when they are in the body.

Risk Factors

The risk of anthrax is higher in people who:

• Live in or travel to places where it is common, such as:
  • Sub-Saharan Africa
  • Asia
  • The Caribbean
  • Southern and Eastern Europe
  • South and Central America
• Work with animals and animal hides
• Work with the bacteria in labs
• Are exposed to criminal or terrorist acts

Symptoms

Symptoms start within a few days after infection.

Skin symptoms may be:

• A raised, round, itchy bump that looks like an insect bite
• Skin sores with a black center and a clear or pinkish fluid discharge
• Swelling around the wound
• Swollen, painful lymph nodes

Symptoms from breathing the spores may be:

• Cough
• Tiredness or weakness
• Soreness and swelling in the throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fever and chills
• Headache and muscle aches

Other symptoms begin later such as:

• Severe breathing problems
• Chest pain
• Sweating
• Confusion

Symptoms from eating raw or undercooked meat that has spores may be:

• Fever
• Swelling in the neck
• Whitish ulcers in the throat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Belly pain
• Bloody diarrhea

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam may be done. The doctor may give tests to rule out other causes.

Tests to diagnose anthrax may be:

• Blood tests
• Tests of fluids, stool, wounds, or tissues
• Imaging tests, such as chest x-rays

Treatment

Treatment will start right away. It will involve:

• Antibiotics—to treat the infection
• Antibodies—to target bacteria (from breathing in the spores)
• Cleaning and bandaging skin sores
• Supportive care—to maintain heart function, blood pressure, and oxygen

Prevention

The risk of anthrax may be lowered by:

• Avoiding contact with infected animals and their products
• Not touching anthrax wounds
• Handling suspicious mail carefully

A vaccine may be given to some people at high risk for anthrax.