woolsorter’s disease [AS, wull + Fr, sorte + L, dis, opposite of; Fr, aise, ease] , the pulmonary form of anthrax, so named because it is an occupational hazard to those who handle sheep’s wool. Early symptoms mimic those of influenza, but the patient soon develops high fever, respiratory distress, and cyanosis. If the disease is not treated at this stage, it is often fatal. Also called pulmonary anthrax. See also anthrax.
