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Causes and pathogenesis of anthrax
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Causes of anthrax
The causative agent of anthrax is the anthrax bacillus (Bacillus anthracis) - a large, immobile rod surrounded by a transparent capsule. Vegetative and spore forms are distinguished. Vegetative forms develop in a living organism or in young laboratory cultures.
Anthrax bacteria spores survive for decades in soil and water, for several months in animal fur, and for years in animal skins. Spore formation does not occur in living organisms or corpses.
The virulence of anthrax bacteria is associated with the ability to form a capsule and produce exotoxin.
Pathogenesis of anthrax
At the site of introduction, the pathogen multiplies and produces specific metabolic products - a specific capsule and exotoxin.
When the skin becomes infected, an anthrax carbuncle is formed - a hemorrhagic-necrotic inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue.
From the sites of introduction, the pathogen is carried by mobile macrophages to the nearest regional lymph nodes with the development of acute specific lymphangitis, lymphadenitis and sepsis.
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