Medical Encyclopedia

Cutaneous Anthrax

Cutaneous anthrax is an infection of the skin caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis.The bacteria causes disease when it comes into contact with non-intact skin.During an infection, an initial skin lesion forms then blisters.The blister breaks down into a black ulcer and nearby lymph nodes may become infected and painful.A scar is often formed which then dries and falls off within two weeks.In 20% of untreated individuals, the infection may spread to the bloodstream and become fatal.Although with proper treatment, death is extremely rare.

Page Content:

cutaneous anthrax; anthrax cutaneous disease