Anthrax
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - A22
What is anthrax?
Anthrax, also known as carbuncle, is a rare but serious bacterial disease. It is caused by Bacillus anthracis, a spore-forming bacterium.
Symptoms
Anthrax symptoms depend on the route of infection. They range from a skin ulcer with a dark crust to breathing difficulties, and may also include fever, diarrhea, and nausea. Hemorrhage and sepsis are among the complications, which can be fatal.
Causes
Anthrax is caused by a bacterium contracted through skin wounds, ingestion of infected meat, inhalation of spores, or insect bites from insects that have previously bitten infected animals.
Diagnosis
Anthrax diagnosis involves laboratory tests to identify the presence of the bacterium in blood, stool, or cerebrospinal fluid. This is based on suspicion arising from symptoms.
Prevention Method
To prevent anthrax infection, avoid handling or ingesting animal-derived materials suspected of containing the bacterium. If there is a risk of airborne spores, the environment should be isolated.
Treatment
Antibiotic treatment cures most cases of anthrax. However, when spores are inhaled, treatment is less likely to succeed. Complications must also be addressed.
Duration
The duration of anthrax depends on when treatment begins. It is most effective when diagnosis occurs within 60 days of exposure to the bacterium.
Is it contagious?
There are no records of person-to-person transmission of anthrax, but since the disease can be contracted through skin wounds, it is recommended not to touch personal items of someone who is ill.
Can it be contracted more than once?
There are no recorded cases of anthrax in Brazil. Due to its rarity, it is uncertain whether reinfection is possible.