Palpebral anthrax, a rare though important condition in villagers: A case report and review of literature

Abstract As an aerobic gram-positive rod, bacillus anthracis can cause potentially-lethal diseases in different organs. Localized eyelid inflammation is a rare presentation of cutaneous anthrax. The present case report involves two patients with palpebral anthrax admitted to the oculoplastic ward of Feiz Eye Hospital, Isfahan, Iran. The patients had a history of close contact with animals. Clinical presentation included palpebral swelling and necrosis of the eyelids in both cases. The patients first underwent an appropriate antibiotic regimen, and biopsy specimens were collected from their necrotic tissues. They were discharged after complete healing and followed up to manage possible complications. Cicatricial ectropion developed in both cases during their healing. A reconstructive surgery was also scheduled for both six months after their discharge.