[Anthrax in the era of biowarfare]

THE CONDITIONS OF INFECTION: Anthrax is a zoonosis due to Bacillus anthracis. Human contamination usually results from contact with an infected animal or product, or direct exposure to the bacteria. The latter represents one of the principle agents that can be used in biowarfare by spraying the spores. VARIOUS POSSIBILITIES: The inhaled form of the disease, characterised by hemorrhagic necrosis of the mediastinum adenopathies and septic shock, is the form that would probably be observed during a terrorist attack. The cutaneous and digestive forms are also possible.

The clinical diagnosis, easy in the cutaneous form, is difficult in the other, rapidly progressive forms. Many guidelines have been published with recommendations for the treatment and prophylaxis of anthrax. Prognosis remains poor in the systemic form of the disease.