The term "struma lymphatica" refers to a localized enlargement of lymph nodes due to infections such as tuberculosis. The spelling of this word is broken down into four syllables - stru-ma lym-pa-ti-ca. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈstruːmə lɪmˈpætɪkə/. The stress falls on the second syllable 'ma'. This disease predominantly affects children, and symptoms typically include swelling and tenderness of the lymph nodes. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to effectively manage the condition.
Struma lymphatica, also known as lymphadenitis tuberculosa or scrofula, is a medical term used to describe a chronic infection of the lymph nodes, generally caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This condition primarily affects the cervical lymph nodes in the neck.
The term "struma" refers to an abnormal enlargement or swelling of the lymph nodes, which can become firm and tender to the touch. "Lymphatica" indicates that the enlargement is of lymphatic origin, meaning that it is related to the lymphatic system responsible for immune response and fluid drainage in the body.
Struma lymphatica typically occurs due to the spread of tuberculosis bacteria through the lymphatic system. This can be a result of direct infection (e.g., through a cut or wound) or as a secondary infection from elsewhere in the body, such as the lungs or bones.
Symptoms of struma lymphatica may include the formation of abscesses or draining sinuses, as the body tries to eliminate the infection. It can lead to non-specific symptoms like fatigue, low-grade fever, and weight loss, as in other forms of tuberculosis.
The diagnosis of struma lymphatica is usually confirmed through various diagnostic imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A biopsy may also be taken to examine the lymph nodes and confirm the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Treatment for struma lymphatica typically involves a combination of antimicrobial medications, such as antibiotics, to eradicate the bacterial infection. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain abscesses or remove infected tissue. In most instances, prompt and appropriate treatment can lead to a favorable outcome and complete resolution of the infection.
Status lymphaticus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "struma lymphatica" refers to a condition called lymphadenopathy, a condition characterized by the swelling of lymph nodes. The etymology of the term can be broken down as follows:
1. Struma: The word "struma" comes from the Latin "strūma", which means a swelling or protuberance. In medical terminology, "struma" specifically refers to an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland.
2. Lymphatica: The word "lymphatica" is derived from the Latin "lympha" meaning lymph and the suffix "-atica", which indicates a condition or disease associated with or affecting a particular organ or system.
Therefore, when combined, "struma lymphatica" refers to the pathological enlargement of lymph nodes.