Rational corticosteroids administration and antibiotic treatment is key to managing cutaneous anthrax

Abstract

Abstract Background Anthrax is a global health concern, with cutaneous anthrax accounting for over 95% of cases and generally promising outcomes. Nonetheless, the absence of timely intervention can result in mortality rates of 10–40%. This research aims to explore the clinical presentations and phenotypic characteristics of cutaneous anthrax patients and evaluate the efficacy of various therapeutic approaches. Methods A retrospective study was performed on 76 cutaneous anthrax patients identified at three hospitals from 2017 to 2022. Patients were categorized based on their hospital stay into two groups: those hospitalized for at least seven days and those for shorter durations. We assessed their clinical and phenotypic profiles, including symptoms, general health status, and laboratory findings, alongside treatment outcomes, focusing on corticosteroids therapy and antibiotic regimens. Results The study encompassed 76 diagnosed individuals, predominantly young adult males (78.9%). A significant gender disparity was noted. Hormonal treatment markedly improved edema regression in patients (P < 0.002), highlighting its therapeutic value. The impact of various antibiotic treatments on disease progression differed significantly based on corticosteroids treatment status, with specific combinations showing more effectiveness in non-corticosteroids-treated patients. Conclusions The predominance of young male adults among cutaneous anthrax cases was observed, with corticosteroids treatment significantly reducing edema duration. In cases where corticosteroids therapy is not utilized, employing piperacillin-tazobactam alone or in combination with quinolones effectively shortens the illness duration, suggesting a tailored approach to treatment can enhance patient outcomes.

Keywords

• Cutaneous anthrax
• Clinical phenotype
• Treatment efficacy