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Temporal artery inflammation as a complication of anthrax
1Section of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
The Journal of Infection
|May 1, 1994
Summary
A patient with cutaneous anthrax developed temporal arteritis, a rare complication. This case highlights a potential inflammatory response to anthrax infection and its treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Cutaneous anthrax, a bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis, typically presents with a characteristic necrotic eschar.
- Oedema and respiratory distress can occur in severe cases, necessitating prompt medical intervention.
Observation:
- A 41-year-old male presented with cutaneous anthrax near the right eye, treated with penicillin.
- Extensive oedema required dexamethasone for 3 days to alleviate tracheal compression and respiratory difficulty.
Findings:
- Following resolution of oedema and eschar evolution, the patient developed acute inflammation of the right temporal artery.
- This represents a potential, previously unreported complication of cutaneous anthrax.
Implications:
- This case suggests a possible link between anthrax infection or its treatment and the development of temporal arteritis.
- Further research is warranted to understand the immunopathogenesis of this rare complication.