Anthrax

Definition

Anthrax is a rare, life-threatening infection. It leads to swelling, bleeding, and tissue death.

Anthrax Can Enter the Body Through the Lungs

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Causes

Certain bacteria and its spores cause anthrax. They are found in soil and animals. The spores can get into the body in several ways:

• Cutaneous—from breaks in the skin
• Inhalation—by breathing them in
• Gastrointestinal—by eating raw or undercooked meat that has spores

Once in the body, the spores multiply and release toxins.

Risk Factors

The risk of anthrax is higher in those who:

• Live in or travel to places where it is common, such as:
  • sub-Saharan Africa
  • Asia
  • the Caribbean
  • Southern and Eastern Europe
  • South and Central America
• Work with animals and animal hides
• Work with the bacteria in labs
• Are exposed to criminal or terrorist acts

Symptoms

Symptoms start within a few days after infection.

Cutaneous symptoms may be:

• A raised, round, itchy bump, like an insect bite
• Skin ulcers with a black center—they make a clear or pinkish fluid
• Swelling around the wound
• Swollen, painful lymph nodes

Inhalation symptoms start with:

• Cough
• Tiredness or weakness
• Soreness and swelling in the throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fever and chills
• Headache and muscle aches

Other symptoms begin later such as:

• Severe breathing problems
• Chest pain
• Sweating
• Confusion
• Death

Gastrointestinal symptoms can be:

• In the mouth or throat, with:
  • Fever
  • Swelling in the neck
  • Whitish ulcers

• In the intestines, with:
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever
  • Belly pain
  • Bloody diarrhea

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam may be done. The doctor may give tests to rule out other causes.

Tests to diagnose anthrax may be:

• Blood tests
• Tests of fluids, stool, wounds, or tissues
• Imaging tests such as chest x-rays

Treatment

Treatment will start right away. It will involve:

• Antibiotics—to treat the infection
• Antibodies—to target bacteria (inhalation anthrax)
• Cleaning and bandaging skin lesions
• Supportive care—to maintain heart function, blood pressure, and oxygen

Prevention

The risk of anthrax may be reduced by:

• Avoiding contact with infected animals and their products
• Not touching anthrax wounds
• Handling suspicious mail carefully

A vaccine may be given to some people at high risk for anthrax.

Revision Information

• Reviewer: David L. Horn, MD, FACP
• Review Date: 09/2020
• Update Date: 02/02/2021