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[Anthrax: an unusual escharotic lesion].
O Boudghène-Stambouli1, A Mérad-Boudia, A Aïssa-Mamoun
1Service de Dermato-Vénéréologie, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire, Tlemcen, Algérie.
Annales De Dermatologie Et De Venereologie
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Anthrax, an animal disease, rarely affects humans. This case highlights a young boy with a skin lesion, emphasizing the need to recognize human anthrax despite its rarity.
Area of Science:
- Zoonotic diseases
- Infectious disease epidemiology
Background:
- Anthrax is primarily an animal disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.
- Human infections are rare but can occur through contact with contaminated animal products.
- Early recognition is crucial for effective treatment.
Observation:
- A 16-year-old boy presented with prolonged fever and a suggestive skin lesion on his leg.
- Initial tests ruled out common endemic infections like typhoid and brucellosis.
- A characteristic escharotic black plaque confirmed the suspicion of anthrax.
Findings:
- Bacteriological confirmation of Bacillus anthracis.
- Pathology revealed epidermal necrosis without significant dermal inflammation or vascular thrombosis.
- The hidden lesion location delayed diagnosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering anthrax in febrile patients with suggestive skin lesions, even in non-endemic human populations.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment with penicillin are effective.
- Awareness of zoonotic disease transmission is vital for public health.