[Anthrax--an old disease becomes topical: cutaneous anthrax and the eye]

Anthrax disease and its eye manifestations were rare in the last 100 years, but the threat of terrorist actions has revived its topicality.

After an introductory historical review, the pathogenesis of this disease with regard to the virulence of Bacillus anthracis is reported. On the basis of photos displaying the course of the disease, the symptoms particularly of the cutaneous form of this disease as well as the diagnostic possibilities are described.

The current status of therapy and research for more effective treatment is discussed, with particular emphasis on the development of new substances with antitoxin properties and better vaccines. Bacillus anthracis is once again an actual threat, and therefore it is necessary for doctors to familiarize themselves with the current knowledge of this infection.