Episode Details

This episode explores the rare Buruli (Buruli) ulcer caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans and its toxin mycolactone, which destroys tissue, suppresses immune signaling, and reduces pain, leading to delayed diagnosis and severe disability.

It draws parallels with diabetic foot ulcers—both can progress silently beneath the skin—covers history, pathology, diagnosis (PCR, biopsy), treatment (antibiotics and surgery), and the key lesson: lack of pain does not mean lack of severity.