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Anthrax: Where Margins are Merging between Emerging Threats and Bioterrorism
Dibyendu Banerjee1, Baishali Chakraborty2, Banya Chakraborty3
1Department of Microbiology, Calcutta National Medical College, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
Indian Journal of Dermatology
|October 6, 2017
Summary
Bacillus anthracis, the cause of anthrax, is a Category A pathogen. This zoonotic disease, primarily cutaneous anthrax, has specific virulence factors and pathogenesis models, with updated CDC guidelines available.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Bacillus anthracis is a Category A priority pathogen causing anthrax, a zoonotic disease.
- Anthrax transmission occurs via cutaneous, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and injection routes.
- Cutaneous anthrax represents 95% of human cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of Bacillus anthracis and anthrax.
- To discuss the classification, transmission, and pathogenesis of anthrax.
- To highlight updated guidelines and available immunization for anthrax.
Main Methods:
- Review of Bacillus anthracis classification and characteristics.
- Description of anthrax transmission routes and clinical forms.
- Explanation of bacterial virulence factors and pathogenesis models.
Main Results:
- Bacillus anthracis possesses a capsule and exotoxin as key virulence factors.
- The 'jail-break' model currently explains anthrax pathogenesis.
- Updated Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines exist for diagnosis, prophylaxis, and treatment.
Conclusions:
- Anthrax remains a significant infectious disease with defined transmission and pathogenesis.
- Availability of anthrax vaccine absorbed for immunization.
- Adherence to updated CDC guidelines is crucial for managing anthrax.
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