Factors in the emergence of Buruli ulcer in Lambar��n�� Gabon

Buruli ulcer is a human skin infection caused by a mycobacterium present in the environment Mycobacterium ulcerans. It is the most frequently encountered mycobacteriosis in tropical and intertropical areas after tuberculosis and leprosy (AUBRY 2008). According to the WHO (2006) this disease is currently reported in 33 countries mainly in tropical regions with a hot and humid climate. Buruli ulcer is found in Latin America (Peru French Guyana Mexico) Asia (Indonesia Japan) in the Western Pacific (Australia Papua New Guinea). But it is in West Africa that the number of cases is impressive: 24000 in Côte d'Ivoire 11000 in Ghana 7000 in Benin. In Central Africa Buruli Ulcer has been confirmed by WHO (2005) in Congo DRC 51 cases Uganda 72 cases Central Africa Cameroon 192 cases and Gabon. According to AUBRY (2008) after an incubation period of 6 to 12 weeks the toxin (mycolactone) produced by the bacterium destroys cutaneous subcutaneous and bone tissue. This toxin inhibits the immune system and permanent disabilities are common.