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Bioterrorism.

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Anthrax↗

Bacterial pathogens as biological weapons and agents of bioterrorism.

Bacterial pathogens have been identified as agents that have been, or could be, used as weapons of biological warfare and/or biological terrorism. These agents are relatively easily obtained, prepared, and dispersed, either as weapons of mass destruction or for more limited terrorist attacks. Although phylogenetically diverse, these agents all have the potential for aerosol dissemination. Physicians in the United States and most of the developed world have never encountered most of these agents and the diseases they produce. Public health programs must be prepared, and individual primary care providers must be able to recognize, diagnose, treat, and prevent infection with these agents.

Anthrax↗

Bacillus anthracis as an agent of bioterrorism: a review emphasizing surgical treatment.

OBJECTIVE: To familiarize surgeons with the specific complications of cutaneous, gastrointestinal, inhalation, and systemic infection with Bacillus Anthracis, which may require surgical treatment. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: The recent cases of intentional exposure to Bacillus Anthracis in the United States make familiarity with the basic microbiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and control of this disease essential if mortality and morbidity is to be minimized, particularly following mass exposure. Although the treatment of Bacillus Anthracis infection is primarily medical, there are specific surgical complications with which the surgeon should be familiar. METHODS: A review of the literature was undertaken, utilizing electronic databases on infection with Bacillus Anthracis, as well as consultation with experts in this field. Emphasis was placed on the diagnosis and treatment of complications of infection that might require surgical intervention. RESULTS: Cutaneous anthrax infection results in eschar formation and massive soft tissue edema. When involving the extremities, increased compartment pressure requiring fasciotomy may result. Primary infection of the gastrointestinal tract may result in oropharyngeal edema and respiratory compromise requiring a surgical airway. Direct involvement of the lower gastrointestinal tract can result in intestinal ulceration, necrosis, bleeding, and perforation, which would require surgical exploration and resection of affected segments. Systemic sepsis, most often associated with inhalation anthrax, can cause massive ascites, electrolyte derangements, and profound shock requiring aggressive fluid resuscitation and careful hemodynamic monitoring and respiratory support. Systemic anthrax infection can also lead to gastrointestinal involvement by hematogenous dissemination, resulting in complications and requiring surgical management similar to direct gastrointestinal infection. CONCLUSIONS: Cutaneous, gastrointestinal, inhalation and systemic infection with Bacillus Anthracis can result in complications which would require familiarity with the pathogenesis and manifestations of this disease in order to recognize and treat promptly and successfully by surgical intervention.

Anthrax↗

Preparing for bioterrorism: category A agents.

September 11, 2001, brought the possibility of biologic acts of terrorism against the United States into the national consciousness. As the American people brace themselves for this new threat to the national well-being, clinicians must understand how to prevent, recognize, and treat the biologic agents that could be used in terrorist attacks. This article discusses the most likely biologic agents, including diagnostic laboratory procedures, treatment options, psychological effects, special populations, and reporting requirements.

Anthrax↗