Orbito-Maxillofacial Cutaneous Anthrax ​

Abstract

Background: Cutaneous anthrax is a zoonotic disease that spreads to humans primarily through exposure to infected animals, animal products or spore infested soil. Microbiological identification of cutaneous anthrax may be obscured by previous antibiotic use. Thorough history and clinical examination is therefore necessary in making a diagnosis. There is a paucity of reports about these infections in our region. Methods: Five cases are presented with a history of contact with animal or animal products and the typical appearance of skin lesions. Two cases were confirmed through microbiologic gram staining. All cases were treated with antibiotics and resolution of the initial cutaneous lesions was noted within three weeks. Conclusion: Thorough clinical history, examination and a high index of suspicion are paramount in making a diagnosis. Management with a combination of antibiotics ensures clinical resolution.

Keywords

• anthrax
• orbital-maxillofacial
• cutane­ous