Fighting Buruli ulcer with innovative tools: from diagnosis to fundamental and therapeutical perspectives

Mycobacterium ulcerans, responsible for the Buruli ulcer, is a largely unknown flesh eater in the same family as the bacteria that cause tuberculosis and leprosy. In order to prevent the destructive effects of this disease on the skin, soft tissues, joints and bones of its victims—mostly children—Dr. Caroline Deshayes developed a new process to detect the toxin released by the bacteria in patients’ tissues, which is useful for early diagnosis and capable of ensuring timely use of adequate treatment.