SCROFULA Meaning and
Definition
-
Scrofula is a noun that refers to a chronic infection of the lymph nodes, resulting in swollen and often painless lumps in the neck, armpits, or groin. It is primarily caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis or Mycobacterium bovis bacteria, although it can also be triggered by other infectious agents. Scrofula typically affects individuals with weakened immune systems, such as children, the elderly, or those suffering from malnutrition.
The condition manifests as firm, non-tender, and freely movable swollen lymph nodes, known as scrofulous abscesses. These usually occur as a result of the bacteria spreading from a primary infection site, most commonly in the lungs or bone. Scrofula may also present with other symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and low-grade fever.
Historically, scrofula was often referred to as the "king's evil" due to the belief that the touch of a monarch could cure it. This led to a practice where afflicted individuals would seek a royal touch as a form of treatment. However, scientific advancements have rendered such beliefs obsolete, and scrofula is now treated with antimicrobial medications and other appropriate therapies, depending on the underlying causative agent.
In conclusion, scrofula is a chronic infection characterized by swollen lymph nodes and commonly caused by certain strains of mycobacteria. It primarily affects individuals with compromised immune systems and is now treated with modern medical interventions instead of historically believed remedies.
-
A constitutional state, occurring in the young, marked by a lack of resisting power of the tissues, predisposing to tuberculosis; lymphatism is present and there is a proneness to eczematous eruptions, ulceration, glandular swellings, respiratory catarrhs, and granular lids; tuberculosis of the glands, bones, or joints is common. Two types are recognized: the lymphatic or phlegmatic, in which there is a tendency to fat with a coarse muddy complexion, thick lips, coarse hair, and stolidity of expression; and the sanguine, in which the skin is clear, changing readily from pale to pink, the eyes blue, and the hair fine and silky, with spareness of figure, vivacity, and mental activity.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
A disease exhibiting itself by hard indolent tumours of the glands, usually those about the neck, after a time degenerating into ulcers, from which a white curdled matter is discharged; king's evil.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SCROFULA
Etymology of SCROFULA
The word "scrofula" comes from the Latin term "scrofulae", which refers to "swellings of the neck". The origin of the Latin word can be traced further back to the Latin word "scrofa", meaning "sow" or "female pig". This is because the swollen lymph nodes characteristic of scrofula were thought to resemble the appearance of a sow's teats.
Similar spelling words for SCROFULA
- scarf,
- scarface,
- scrofulous,
- scare off,
- schreffler,
- scurfy,
- scorpio,
- scarboro,
- scarify,
- Sus Scrofa,
- scarpa,
- scurf,
- scarfpin,
- scarab.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
