Glandular phthisis is a medical condition that affects the lungs. The spelling of this term can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word, glandular, is pronounced with a hard g sound at the beginning (/ɡlændjʊlər/). The term phthisis is pronounced with a silent p and a th sound (/ˈθaɪsɪs/). The combination of these two elements makes up the full term glandular phthisis. It is important to use correct spelling when communicating medical information to ensure clarity and accuracy in diagnosis and treatment.
Glandular phthisis, also known as tuberculous lymphadenitis or scrofula, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lymph nodes in the neck region, although it can also involve other lymph nodes in the body.
The term "glandular phthisis" is derived from the Greek word "phthisis," meaning wasting or consumption, which reflects the gradual decline in health observed in affected individuals if left untreated. Typically, the infection is transmitted through inhalation of infected respiratory droplets expelled by someone with active tuberculosis, leading to the formation of lung lesions. These lesions serve as a reservoir for the bacteria, spreading to the regional lymph nodes and causing their enlargement.
The symptoms of glandular phthisis often include painless swelling of the lymph nodes, most commonly in the neck. The affected lymph nodes may become firm, tender, and progressively increase in size over time. Other symptoms can include fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue. The disease can also result in sinus tracts or abscess formation in the affected lymph nodes, leading to discharge or fistulae.
Diagnosis of glandular phthisis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging tests such as X-rays or computed tomography scans, and microbiological testing to identify the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Treatment typically involves a long course of antibiotics, including multiple drugs to combat bacterial resistance, and sometimes surgical intervention to drain abscesses or remove affected lymph nodes.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and reduce transmission of the disease to others.
Tuberculous inflammation of the lymph glands, especially in the neck; cervical adenitis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the term "glandular phthisis" can be broken down as follows:
1. Glandular: This term is derived from the noun "gland", which comes from the Latin word "glans" meaning "acorn" or "gland". It refers to an organ in the body that secretes specific substances, such as hormones or enzymes.
2. Phthisis: This term comes from the Ancient Greek word "phthísis", meaning "consumption" or "wasting away". It was used to describe a chronic and progressive disease characterised by wasting and debilitation, which is now known as tuberculosis.
Therefore, "glandular phthisis" refers to a condition characterized by the wasting away of certain glands, often specifically associated with tuberculosis affecting these organs.