Diseases
inhalational anthrax
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Inhalation anthrax is considered to be the most deadly form of anthrax. Infection usually develops within a week after exposure, but it can take up to 2 months. When a person breathes in anthrax spores, they can develop inhalation anthrax.
Symptoms
- shortness of breath
- nausea
- flu-like symptoms for a few hours or days, such as sore throat, mild fever
- mild chest discomfort
- coughing up blood
Causes
- anthrax spores are formed by anthrax bacteria that occur naturally in soil in most parts of the world.
Risk factors
- are in the military and deployed to an area with a high risk of exposure to anth
- work with anthrax in a laboratory setting
- handle animal skins, furs or wool from areas with a high incidence of anthrax
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- skin testing.
- chest x-ray or computerized tomography (ct) scan.
- spinal tap (lumbar puncture).
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is inhalational anthrax?
Inhalation anthrax is considered to be the most deadly form of anthrax. Infection usually develops within a week after exposure, but it can take up to 2 months. When a person breathes in anthrax spores, they can develop inhalation anthrax.
What are the symptoms of inhalational anthrax?
shortness of breath, nausea, flu-like symptoms for a few hours or days, such as sore throat, mild fever, mild chest discomfort, coughing up blood
What causes inhalational anthrax?
anthrax spores are formed by anthrax bacteria that occur naturally in soil in most parts of the world.
Which medicines are used for inhalational anthrax?
levofloxacin
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.