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A rare cause of preseptal cellulitis: anthrax
Hasibe Artac1, Musa Silahli, Sevgi Keles
1Department of Peadiatrics, Selcuk University Meram Medical Facutly, Konya, Turkey. hasibeartac@yahoo.com
Pediatric Dermatology
|June 5, 2007
Summary
Cutaneous anthrax, a contagious infection, can cause preseptal cellulitis in children. This rare cause should be considered in the differential diagnosis of eyelid infections.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Preseptal cellulitis, an infection of the eyelid anterior to the orbital septum, is common in children.
- While typically bacterial, a broad differential diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
Observation:
- A case of a child presenting with symptoms consistent with preseptal cellulitis is described.
- The child was diagnosed with cutaneous anthrax, a bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis.
Findings:
- Cutaneous anthrax, though uncommon, can manifest as preseptal cellulitis.
- Early recognition and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent complications.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering zoonotic infections in the differential diagnosis of preseptal cellulitis.
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for cutaneous anthrax in endemic areas or with relevant exposure history.
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