Buruli ulcer

Buruli ulcer is a skin infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans. It often starts as a painless lump or patch of swelling and can slowly turn into a large, deep ulcer if ignored. This infection is most common in tropical and subtropical areas and is linked to contact with slow-moving water or insect bites in those regions.

Symptoms & diagnosis

Early signs are often subtle: a small, painless nodule, a raised area, or swelling. Over weeks to months the lesion can break down into a shallow ulcer with a sharp edge and an undermined border. You may not feel much pain even when the wound looks large. The disease usually affects arms and legs and can leave big scars or cause loss of movement if it reaches joints.

Doctors diagnose Buruli ulcer by combining physical exam with lab tests. PCR testing, tissue biopsy, or bacterial culture can confirm the cause. Quick diagnosis helps—treatment works best before extensive tissue loss occurs.

Treatment & prevention

Antibiotics are the main treatment. Current regimens typically last about eight weeks and often include rifampicin plus another antibiotic such as clarithromycin or streptomycin. Wound care is crucial: keep the area clean, change dressings as advised, and follow your clinician’s instructions. Surgery is sometimes needed to remove dead tissue or to repair large defects after infection is controlled.

Physical therapy and scar care help restore function when ulcers affect joints or muscles. Follow-up is important because the infection can leave lasting wounds that need ongoing care.

To lower your risk, avoid wading in stagnant water in areas where Buruli ulcer is common, wear protective clothing, and cover small cuts. Insect protection—nets and repellents—might help, though the exact transmission route remains unclear. The BCG vaccine may offer short-term protection but is not a reliable prevention method on its own.

If you notice a painless lump, non-healing sore, or a spreading skin patch that doesn’t look like a typical sore, see a healthcare provider quickly. Early diagnosis makes treatment simpler and reduces the chance of major scarring or disability.

Top RX Market has articles on antibiotics, wound care tips, and safe ways to buy medications online if you need more information. If you live or travel in areas where Buruli ulcer happens, knowing the signs and getting fast care can make a big difference.