ADVERTISEMENTWhat is Buruli Ulcer? The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines Buruli ulcer as a chronic skin disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans. ADVERTISEMENTCauses of Buruli UlcerThe buruli ulcer is caused by a mycobacterium called ulcerans. According to WebMD, there is no evidence to suggest that an infected animal can transmit Buruli ulcer to humans. The good news is that Buruli ulcer is curable, especially when detected early.