inhalational anthrax

a highly fatal form of anthrax due to inhalation of dust containing anthrax spores, which are transported by the alveolar pneumocytes to regional lymph nodes where they germinate, multiply, and produce toxin. Characteristics include hemorrhagic edematous mediastinitis, pleural effusions, dyspnea, cyanosis, stridor, and shock. It is usually an occupational disease, most often affecting those who handle and sort contaminated wools and fleeces. Called also pulmonary a. and ragpicker's or woolsorter's disease.