Complications
An assessment of 15 survivors of the anthrax attacks of September 2001 at 1-year follow-up suggests that psychological stress is common after infection. Nine survivors, six of whom only had a limited cutaneous infection, reported psychological symptoms.[71]
An assessment of 15 survivors of the anthrax attacks of September 2001 at 1-year follow-up suggests that all affected patients had lower physical function when compared with a reference population.[71]
Sepsis has been reported in approximately 70% of patients with systemic disease. It has been reported in 60% to 94% of children with inhalation, ingestion, and systemic cutaneous anthrax.[1] Early recognition and prompt treatment is essential.
Evidence of coagulopathy has been reported in approximately 33% of adults with ingestion, inhalation, and injection anthrax and those with primary meningitis. It has been reported in approximately 40% of children with inhalation and ingestion anthrax.[1]
Respiratory failure requiring ventilation has been reported in 32% of adults with injection anthrax and 23% of adults with inhalation anthrax.[1] Supplementary oxygen and ventilatory support are part of the management strategy.
Arrhythmias have been reported in 7% of adults with inhalation anthrax.[1] Management depends on the type of arrhythmia.
Among 10 survivors of the anthrax attacks of September 2001, the pulmonary function test at 1-year follow-up was abnormal in 3 cases. Two patients demonstrated mild reduction in oxygen-diffusing capacity, while one patient had mild and reversible obstructive findings.[71]
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