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Cutaneous anthrax on eyelids
Ihsan Caça1, Sevin Söker Cakmak, Kaan Unlü
1Department of Ophthalmology, Dicle University Medical Faculty, Diyarbakir, Turkey. ihsancaca@mynet.com
Japanese Journal of Ophthalmology
|June 4, 2004
Summary
Ophthalmologists should recognize anthrax symptoms, even though it is rare. This study details successful treatment of three patients with periorbital anthrax lesions, highlighting potential eyelid complications.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Anthrax is a rare human disease, but ophthalmologists must recognize its signs and symptoms.
- This study focuses on three patients with cutaneous lesions in the periorbital area, initially diagnosed with preseptal cellulitis.
Observation:
- Microscopic examination revealed Gram-positive rods, with Bacillus anthracis identified in two of three cultures.
- All patients developed characteristic black, necrotic eschar on their eyelids during intravenous penicillin G treatment.
Findings:
- Two patients experienced eyelid complications, including cicatrization, lagophthalmos, ectropion, and corneal scarring from exposure keratopathy.
- One patient's cutaneous lesions healed without any eyelid pathology.
Implications:
- Anthrax should be considered in the differential diagnosis of preseptal and orbital cellulitis.
- Early recognition and treatment are crucial to minimize potential long-term ophthalmic complications.