Buruli ulcer, also referred to as Buruli disease, is a chronic infectious skin disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in certain parts of Africa, Asia, South America, and the Western Pacific.
Buruli ulcer typically starts as a painless bump or nodule on the skin that gradually develops into an open sore or ulcer. The ulceration can be extensive, with deep tissue destruction, leading to significant disabilities if left untreated. The disease primarily affects the skin, but it can also affect bones and joints, resulting in complications and deformities.
The exact mode of transmission of Buruli ulcer is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve environmental factors. It is speculated that the bacterium enters the skin through insignificant wounds or insect bites. Poverty, poor sanitation, and proximity to stagnant water bodies have been identified as potential risk factors.
Diagnosis of Buruli ulcer involves a combination of clinical examination, laboratory tests (such as polymerase chain reaction), and/or histopathology. Early treatment is crucial, as it can prevent the progression of the disease and reduce the severity of complications. The standard treatment involves a combination of antibiotics, primarily rifampicin and clarithromycin. Surgery may be necessary for extensive ulcers or severe cases.
Efforts to control Buruli ulcer primarily focus on early case detection, effective treatment, wound care, and health education. Public health interventions, such as improving sanitation and reducing human contact with contaminated water sources, are also important strategies to prevent transmission and reduce the prevalence of the disease in endemic areas.
