Inhalational anthrax.

Respiratory Therapy and Medical Intensive Care Unit, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Service, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Building 2, Ward 77, 6900 Georgia Avenue NW Washington, DC 20307, USA. Brian.Cuneo@na.amedd.army.mil

Anthrax remains a real threat. In a spore form, it is highly infectious and dispersible. The initial symptoms are similar to those of influenza, and the early stage of inhalational anthrax may not be recognized. Early antibiotic treatment is important to achieving a good outcome. Contrary to historical experience. many patients with even advanced anthrax can be saved with aggressive medical care.Prevention of anthrax infections requires vigilant infection control methods as well as a rational prophylactic plan. All health care providers should be familiar with the symptoms and treatment of this disease. It is hoped that future research will clarify tests for early diagnosis, the best methods of prophylaxis, and the most effective treatments. Unfortunately the threat of bioterrorism, and anthrax in particular, is unlikely to go away.

PMID: 15062228 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]