The correct spelling of the medical condition "tropical ulcer" is made up of three syllables, with stress on the first and third syllables: tro-pi-cal ul-cer. The "t" in "tropical" is pronounced as /t/ and the "c" in "ulcer" is pronounced as /s/, with an unstressed "er" sounding like /ər/. This condition is a type of skin ulceration that is common in tropical regions, hence its name. It is caused by bacterial infection and poor hygiene, and can be treated with antibiotics and wound care.
A tropical ulcer, also known as a Buruli ulcer or Bairnsdale ulcer, is a chronic skin lesion caused by an infection with the bacteria Mycobacterium ulcerans. This condition predominantly affects individuals living in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Africa, Australia, and the Western Pacific.
The ulcer typically starts as a painless nodule or bump on the skin that gradually enlarges and becomes an open sore. The lesion can vary in size from a small ulcer to a large, deep wound. The edges of the ulcer are characterized by undermined, undermined, and rolled skin, creating a distinct appearance.
Tropical ulcers are thought to be transmitted through contact with surface water or soil that contains the bacteria. The bacteria then enter the body through a cut, scratch, or insect bite, leading to the development of an infected lesion.
Symptoms of tropical ulcers may include pain, tenderness, swelling, and the presence of fluid or pus. Left untreated, the ulcers can extend deeper into the tissues, resulting in bone and joint involvement. Other complications, such as scarring, contractures, and secondary infections, can also arise.
Treatment for tropical ulcers typically involves a combination of antibiotics, such as rifampicin and streptomycin, which are administered for several weeks. Additionally, the wound may require surgical intervention, including debridement (removal of dead tissue) and skin grafting.
Prevention strategies for tropical ulcers focus on promoting good hygiene practices, avoiding contact with potentially contaminated waters or soils, and providing early diagnosis and treatment.
Oriental boil.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "tropical ulcer" has a straightforward etymology. It is a combination of the adjective "tropical" and the noun "ulcer". Here is a breakdown of each component:
1. Tropical: The word "tropical" derives from the Late Latin "tropicus", meaning "pertaining to the solstice" or "pertaining to the turning point". This Latin term is derived from the Greek word "tropikos", which means "pertaining to a turn". In this context, "tropical" refers to the geographical regions near the Earth's equator, characterized by warm climates.
2. Ulcer: The term "ulcer" comes from the Latin word "ulcus", which means "a sore" or "an open sore". It can be traced further back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*elkos", which means "wound" or "sore".