Aerosolized biologic toxins as agents of warfare and terrorism.
Incomplete participation in the 1972 Biological Weapons Convention treaty and noncompliance by several signatory nations makes the malicious use of aerosolized biologic toxins a continuing threat. Unfortunately,prompt diagnosis of toxin exposure may be confounded by a paucity of pathognomonic features and limited diagnostics, but the scenario of patients presenting en masse with a similar pulmonary syndrome should alert the clinician to the possibility of aerosolized toxin exposure. As knowledge of these agents increases, so too should the capabilities for detection,protection, diagnosis, and therapy. This improved understanding, coupled with ongoing public education and awareness and with detailed proactive planning will provide the framework for a prepared community.
Zapor
Michael
M
Infectious Disease Service, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Ward 63, Building 2, 6900 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20307, USA.
Fishbain
Joel T
JT
D000336:Aerosols; D023482:Bioterrorism; D004189:Disaster Planning; D004768:Enterotoxins; D006801:Humans; D009183:Mycotoxins; D012141:Respiratory Tract Infections / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012276:Ricin; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus; D014255:Trichothecenes; D014481:United States
D000336:Aerosols; D004768:Enterotoxins; D009183:Mycotoxins; D014255:Trichothecenes; D012276:Ricin