Which type of anthrax is most often associated with cutaneous exposure?

Cutaneous anthrax is the type of anthrax that is most commonly associated with exposure through the skin. This form occurs when spores of the bacterium Bacillus anthracis enter the body through cuts or abrasions in the skin. It is characterized by the development of a distinctive ulcer with a characteristic black center, often referred to as an eschar.

This type of anthrax is typically less severe than inhalation or gastrointestinal anthrax, with cutaneous cases generally being treatable through appropriate antibiotic therapy if addressed promptly. Understanding the modes of transmission and the different forms of anthrax is crucial for recognition and response, especially for healthcare professionals in the field, such as Navy Hospital Corpsmen, who may encounter situations involving potential exposure to this pathogen.