Pronunciation: [tjˈuːbəkjˌʊləs ɡˈʌmə] (IPA) 
The term "tuberculous gumma" is used to describe a type of lesion that can occur in people with tuberculosis. The word is spelled with a "c" instead of the more common "k" in the word "tuberculous" due to its Latin roots. The word "gumma" is spelled with a "u" instead of an "o" due to its historical usage in medicine. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /tjuːˈbɜːkjʊləs ˈɡʌmə/.
Tuberculous gumma is a term used in medical literature to describe a specific type of lesion that arises due to tuberculosis infection. It is most commonly associated with the advanced stages of secondary syphilis when it coexists with tuberculosis.
The term "gumma" refers to a soft, tumor-like mass or nodule that forms in the tissues as a result of infection or inflammation. In the case of tuberculous gumma, it is characterized by the presence of tuberculous granulomas, which are small nodules formed by aggregated immune cells (such as macrophages) in response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria.
Tuberculous gumma typically affects tissues in the skin, mucous membranes, bones, or internal organs, and can present as painless, firm, and non-ulcerative nodules. These lesions can vary in size and appearance, sometimes resembling a nodule with raised borders and a central area of necrosis. If left untreated, they can lead to tissue destruction and scarring.
The diagnosis of tuberculous gumma often involves a combination of clinical examination, medical history, laboratory tests, and sometimes biopsy of the affected tissue. Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics specific for tuberculosis, such as isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, which can effectively control the infection and promote healing.
Overall, tuberculous gumma is a distinct manifestation of tuberculosis infection that can occur in individuals with secondary syphilis. Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent complications and potential spread of the infection.
A subcutaneous nodule, the size of a marble or larger, tuberculous in nature, which breaks down into a sluggish ulcer.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "tuberculous gumma" has its etymology rooted in the medical terminology used to describe a specific manifestation of tuberculosis. Here's a breakdown of its components:1. Tuberculous: The term "tuberculous" is derived from the word "tuberculosis", which comes from the Latin "tuberculum" meaning "little swelling" or "nodule". It refers to a contagious infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis.2. Gumma: The term "gumma" has a different origin. It comes from the Greek word "goggzemí" meaning "tumour" or "swelling". In medical usage, "gumma" typically refers to a soft, tumor-like mass that often develops during the tertiary stage of syphilis. However, when combined with "tuberculous", it refers to a similar lesion caused by tuberculosis bacteria.
