Periorbital cellulitis due to cutaneous anthrax

Palpebral anthrax, a rare though important condition in villagers: A case report and literature review

The aerobic Gram-positive rod Bacillus anthracis can cause potentially lethal diseases affecting different organs. Localized eyelid inflammation is a rare presentation of cutaneous anthrax. This case report involves two patients with palpebral anthrax admitted to the oculoplastic ward of Feiz Eye Hospital, Isfahan, Iran. The patients had a history of close contact with animals. Clinical presentation included palpebral swelling and necrosis of the eyelids in both cases. The patients first underwent an appropriate antibiotic regimen, and biopsy specimens were collected from their necrotic tissues. They were discharged after complete healing and followed up to manage possible complications. Cicatricial ectropion developed in both cases during healing. Reconstructive surgery was scheduled for both cases 6 months after their discharge.

Anthrax Toxins in Context of Bacillus anthracis Spores and Spore Germination

The interaction of anthrax toxin or toxin components with B. anthracis spores has been demonstrated. Germinating spores can produce significant amounts of toxin components very soon after the initiation of germination. In this review, we will summarize the work performed that has led to our understanding of toxin and spore interactions and discuss the complexities associated with these interactions.