Anthrax: Causes

Pathogenesis (disease development)

Bacillus anthracis is a highly pathogenic spore-forming gram-positive rod bacterium. The bacterium has the ability to form capsules and endotoxins. The spores are highly resistant to disinfectants and also heat.

Human infection can occur by the following routes:

  • Through small skin lesions (cutaneous anthrax).
  • Through aerosols (pulmonary anthrax).
  • Through contaminated meat products (intestinal anthrax).
  • Through contaminated injection substances/materials.

In the organism, under favorable conditions, the vegetative form is formed. A hemorrhagic course of disease may then occur, with the risk of environmental contamination via body secretions.

Infection is not usually transmitted from person to person (exception may be cutaneous anthrax).

Etiology (causes)

Biographic causes

  • Occupations – Workers in the following occupations are particularly at risk:
    • Processing of animals (hides/skins, bones, etc.).
    • Veterinary medicine
    • Agriculture
    • Forestry
    • Hunting industry

Causes related to disease

Psyche – nervous system (F00-F99; G00-G99)