glanders
Last reviewed 01/2018
Glanders is a disease caused by a gram-negative bacillus, Pseudomonas mallei.
This disease usually affects horses but may occasionally affect humans, especially individuals who work closely with horses. The disease is acquired by man as a result of inhalation or inoculation of infected material. It is very rare nowadays in humans.
Presentation - in acute infection the patient may present with a high fever and delirium. The disease may result in the development of ulceration of the upper respiratory tract. This may cause pneumonia, empyema and lung abscess. Left untreated, the patient may develop septicaemia.
Treatment is with sulphonamides, surgical drainage and supportive therapy.