Biological warfare from a dermatologic perspective

Abstract

Biological warfare agents have been used in this century by both organized armed forces and terrorist organizations. Beset with many problems that limit their tactical value on the battlefield, such "weapons of mass destruction" have tremendous terror appeal. Unusual presentations or clustering of diseases associated with biowarfare might alert the clinician that an attack has occurred. The clinical presentations, current recommended treatments, and preventive measures of agents such as anthrax, smallpox, plague, and the viral hemorrhagic fevers are discussed, as well as some of the issues that have been raised as authorities are considering how and when to resume smallpox vaccinations. References focus on current Internet web sites, which will provide up-to-date information and advice for allergists with immunization questions or who feel they might have encountered a patient with one of these diseases.