Pronunciation: [tjˈuːbəkjˌʊla͡ɪd] (IPA) 
Tuberculide is spelled as \tjuːˈbɜːkjuːlaɪd\. The word tuberculide is derived from tubercles, which are small raised lumps that form under the skin, and itis, meaning inflammation. Tuberculide is used to describe skin eruptions caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to an underlying tuberculosis infection. The word may be spelled with or without an "e" at the end, but the most commonly accepted spelling is with the "e".
Tuberculide is a term used in dermatology to describe a group of skin conditions that share similarities with tuberculosis but are not caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. This term was first coined in the early 20th century to differentiate these skin conditions from actual tuberculosis.
Tuberculides are characterized by the presence of red or purple papules or nodules that typically occur in groups. These lesions are commonly found on the extremities, especially the lower legs, but can also appear on other parts of the body. They may be accompanied by itching or tenderness.
There are different types of tuberculides, including papulonecrotic tuberculide, lichen scrofulosorum, and erythema induratum. Papulonecrotic tuberculide is characterized by the development of papules that develop necrotic centers, eventually forming ulcers that heal with scarring. Lichen scrofulosorum presents as small red-brown papules that may resemble lichen planus. Erythema induratum manifests as painful nodules that typically occur on the calves of women, often associated with tuberculosis infection elsewhere in the body.
The exact cause of tuberculides is unclear, but it is believed to be a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to tuberculous antigens. While tuberculides themselves are benign and do not cause systemic tuberculosis, they suggest an underlying tuberculosis infection in some cases. Diagnosis typically involves histopathology and immunologic testing to rule out actual tuberculosis. Treatment often involves addressing the underlying tuberculosis infection, as well as the use of medications to alleviate symptoms and control the skin lesions.
A lesion of the skin due to the action of the toxins of tuberculosis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "tuberculide" is derived from the combination of two elements: "tubercul(o)-" and "-ide".
1. "Tubercul(o)-" comes from the Latin word "tuberculum", meaning a small swelling or a nodule. It ultimately traces back to the Latin term "tubercula" meaning "little tumors" or "small lumps". This Latin term, in turn, is derived from the diminutive form of "tuber", meaning "swelling" or "knob".
2. The suffix "-ide" is common in medical terminology and is derived from the Greek suffix "-idēs", which indicates "having the nature of" or "pertaining to".
