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Buruli Ulcer

 

Buruli ulcer is a disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans. It is found in tropical regions such as Africa and Australia and mainly affects the skin, but can also affect the bones. 


It is not known how the bacterium is transmitted, but it has been found in animals such as horses, dogs and alpacas. The disease causes the skin to swell and if left untreated, the skin will become destroyed and gangrenous. 


Procedures such as skin grafts are useless, as the disease will also destroy it. Instead, doctors are required to prescribe strong antibiotics, which are also used to treat leprosy and tuberculosis. The treatment also leads to other side effects such as fatigue and nausea, and can also cause sweat and tears to turn orange. Even after the disease is treated, surgery may be required to cover skin defects and correct deformities.


Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/buruli-ulcer/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/buruli-ulcer/transmission.html

https://www.cdc.gov/buruli-ulcer/signs-symptoms.html

https://www.cdc.gov/buruli-ulcer/treatment.html

https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/australianz/a-terrifying-disease-stalks-seaside-australia-flesh-eating-ulcers


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