Cutaneous anthrax

•	In-Depth Reports Home
•	Back to Article

More Features

•	Printer-friendly version

Cutaneous anthrax

Anthrax is usually contracted through contact with animals that harbor the anthrax bacterium. The cutaneous form is transmitted through a break in the skin and may spread through the bloodstream, causing shock and collapse. Early and aggressive treatment with antibiotics is effective.

Review Date: 7/4/2011
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.