glanders [OFr, neck gland swelling] , an infection caused by the bacillus Burkholderia mallei (formerly called Pseudomonas mallei), transmitted to humans from horses and other domestic animals. It is characterized by purulent inflammation of the mucous membranes and development of skin nodules that ulcerate. If untreated with antibiotics, the infection may spread to the bones, liver, central nervous system, and other tissues and cause death. It is endemic in Africa, Asia, and South America but has been eradicated in Europe and North America. Infection has been seen in laboratory workers because of the low infectious dose. It is considered a potential agent for bioterrorism.
