[Glanders, melioidosis and biowarfare].
MANY COMMON FACTORS: Glanders and melioidosis are infectious diseases that are caused by the bacteria of the Burkholderia species. These infections are endemic in tropical regions and can lead to la broad spectrum of common clinical manifestations. TWO PRINCIPLE CLINICAL FORMS: The most frequent clinical presentation is the pulmonary form, which can mimic pulmonary tuberculosis. The septicemic form is the most severe form, and lethal in nearly 50% of cases. WEAPONS FOR BIOTERRORISM AND WAR: Very few organisms are required to cause disease by aerosolisation, which could be the main route of contamination for humans after a deliberate release. This property has permitted yet the use of these bacteria as biological warfare weapon during the past century. We have to consider these agents as possible biological warfare agents. Europeans guidelines for treatment and post-exposure prophylaxis are detailed.