Journal article
Mycobacterium ulcerans disease
TS Van Der Werf, Y Stienstra, RC Johnson, R Phillips, O Adjei, B Fleischer, MH Wansbrough-Jones, PDR Johnson, F Portaels, WTA Van Der Graaf, K Asiedu
Bulletin of the World Health Organization | WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION | Published : 2005
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans disease (Buruli ulcer) is an important health problem in several west African countries. It is prevalent in scattered foci around the world, predominantly in riverine areas with a humid, hot climate. We review the epidemiology, bacteriology, transmission, immunology, pathology, diagnosis and treatment of infections. M. ulcerans is an ubiquitous micro-organism and is harboured by fish, snails, and water insects. The mode of transmission is unknown. Lesions are most common on exposed parts of the body, particularly on the limbs. Spontaneous healing may occur. Many patients in endemic areas present late with advanced, severe lesions. BCG vaccination yields a limited, rela..
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