DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Infectious Disease

Buruli Ulcer

MODERATE

A necrotizing skin disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. Destroys skin and soft tissue, causing large ulcers. Most common in West and Central Africa. Third most common mycobacterial disease after tuberculosis and leprosy. Affects approximately 5,000-6,000 people annually.

Global Affected

6.0K

Countries

20

Symptoms

Painless nodule under skin
Painless swelling
Plaque formation
Open ulcer
Undermined ulcer edges
Whitish-yellow color in ulcer
No fever typically
Large tissue destruction
Scarring
Contractures
Bone involvement (severe cases)

Treatment Options

Rifampicin + Streptomycin
Rifampicin + Clarithromycin
Surgical debridement
Skin grafting
Wound care
Physiotherapy
Pain management (if needed)
Nutritional support
Antibiotics for secondary infection
Compression therapy
Scar management

Risk Factors

1Contact with slow-moving water
2Living in rural wetlands
3Proximity to aquatic environments
4Children aged 5-15 (most affected)
5Agricultural activities near water
6Immunocompromised state
7Poor wound care
8Delayed treatment

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1PCR testing (most sensitive)
  • 2Ziehl-Neelsen staining
  • 3Culture (difficult, slow)
  • 4Histopathology
  • 5Clinical examination
  • 6IS2404 PCR
  • 7IS2606 PCR
  • 8Fine needle aspiration

Prognosis

Excellent with early treatment. Antibiotic treatment cures over 90% of cases. Large ulcers may require skin grafting and prolonged healing. Without treatment, extensive tissue destruction occurs. Permanent scarring and disability possible. Treatment prevents further spread.

Prevention

  • Avoid contact with stagnant water
  • Protective clothing
  • Prompt wound cleaning
  • Early detection and treatment
  • Health education
  • Environmental management
  • Contact tracing
  • Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine (partial protection)

Research Status

Rifampicin plus streptomycin or clarithromycin for 8 weeks. Surgical debridement often needed. Skin grafting for large wounds. Wound care essential. Treatment highly effective. WHO elimination goal by 2030. Early detection campaigns important.

Affected Countries

AustraliaBJCMCFDR CongoCGCIGAGhanaGNJapanLRMexicoNigeriaPGSLSSTGUgandaZZ

Sources

  • https://www.who.int/health-topics/buruli-ulcer
  • https://www.cdc.gov/buruliulcer
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/buruli-ulcer

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.