MALIGNANT ANTHRAX (swelling)

Categories: Infectious Diseases

In this lesion is a pustule, with very
marked swelling. It most frequently occurs on the eyelid and face and the

swelling may terminate in fatal gangrene.



2. Internal anthrax. (a) Internal anthrax is caused by the introduction

of the bacteria into the alimentary canal in infected meat, milk, etc. The

invasion is marked by a chill, followed by moderate fever, vomiting,

diarrhea, pain in the back and legs and rest essness. Sometimes

convulsions occur and hemorrhages into the skin from the mucous membranes.

The spleen is swollen. Prostration is extreme and it often ends in death.



(b) Charbon or Wool Sorter's disease occurs among those employed in

picking over wool or hair of infected animals--the germs being inhaled or

swallowed. The onset is sudden with a chill, then fever, pain in the back

and legs, and severe prostration. There may be difficulty of breathing and

signs of bronchitis, or vomiting and diarrhea. Death is a common

termination, sometimes within a day. Death rate is from five to twenty-six

per cent. Greatest when the swelling is near the head.



Treatment. The wound or swelling should be cauterized and a solution of

carbolic acid or bichloride of mercury injected around it and applied to

its surface. Stimulants and feeding are important.