Cutaneous anthrax : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests

Symptoms & Signs

Between 1 and 12 days after exposure, an itchy sore develops, similar to an insect bite. This sore may blister and form a black ulcer (sore), which is usually painless. It is usually surrounded by significant swelling. A scab often develops, and then dries and falls off within 2 weeks, although complete healing can take longer.

Some patients also have painful lymph nodes, fever, headache, and a general ill-feeling (malaise).

Diagnosis & Tests

A culture of the skin lesions should be done to identify the bacteria that cause anthrax.

• Cutaneous anthrax : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

• Cutaneous anthrax : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests

• Cutaneous anthrax : Treatment

Review Date : 10/28/2008
Reviewed By : Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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