Anthrax

Anthrax is an infectious disease transmitted by spore-forming bacteria. Artiodactyles (horses, goats, sheep, cattle, but also camels or reindeer) are particularly at risk. A transmission from humans to another human is not possible. Since the spleen discolors brown-black if left untreated, the disease is called “anthrax”. The Latin name anthrax is derived from the black pustule that forms in skin anthrax (the most common form of anthrax).

Causes

Anthrax is triggered by the responsible bacterium (Bacillus anthracis). The bacterium belongs to the class of gram positive, aerobic, spore-forming bacteria. Since it is capable of spore formation, it can survive for several decades even outside the host at favourable temperatures (12-43°C) and sufficient oxygen.

This means that there is a risk of spreading the bacterium, especially in warmer areas that have access to water (transport of the bacterium via river basins). If the bacterium enters its host, it produces the anthrax toxin (anthratoxin), which destroys cells. Transmission is possible through direct skin contact (skin anthrax), the spores can be inhaled (pulmonary anthrax) or eaten through infected dairy products or meat (intestinal anthrax). Since the spores are so resistant and survive for a long time outside the host, anthrax can also be caused by wearing infected clothing (e.g. sheep’s wool, leather). Transmission through contaminated heroin is also possible.

Diagnosis

In the diagnosis of anthrax, the patient interview (anamnesis) is particularly important. The physician should pay particular attention to the possible danger at work. If the patient is in frequent contact with cloven hoofed animals or their utilization products, for example in a tannery, this can be an indication of anthrax.

In order to make a final diagnosis, a sample is taken from the cough sputum or the pustule, which is then cultivated on a culture medium. If an anthrax colony grows, the patient is infected. Genetic detection using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is also possible, but is more cost-intensive. A blood test with the following rapid test can also provide information. The diagnosis anthrax is notifiable in Germany!