Buruli ulcer is a disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans. It mainly affects the skin but can also affect the bone. Cases are generally seen in the tropics, primarily in West Africa and Australia.
Infection often leads to ulcers on the arms or legs, which can also destroy skin or soft tissue. When not properly treated, the disease can cause irreversible deformity or long-term functional disability.
Illustration of an ulcerated skin section
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- Page last reviewed: January 26, 2015
- Page last updated: January 26, 2015
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