White swelling, also known as chronic tuberculous synovitis, is a pathological condition characterized by the development of a chronic infection that affects the joints, primarily the knee, but also hips, shoulders, ankles, and other major joints. It is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which primarily affects the lungs through airborne transmission. However, in some cases, it can spread to different parts of the body, including the joints.
The term "white swelling" derives from the visible symptoms associated with the condition. Affected joints become swollen, sometimes appearing enlarged and diffusely swollen with a pale or white color. The swelling is caused by the accumulation of inflammatory fluids and necrotic tissue, which develops over time due to the chronic nature of the infection.
If left untreated, white swelling can lead to significant joint deformity, loss of joint function, and potentially systemic spread of the infection, which can be life-threatening. Treatment typically involves a combination of anti-tuberculosis drugs to eliminate the infection, as well as the administration of analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
In modern medicine, white swelling is a rare condition in developed countries due to the availability of effective anti-tuberculosis treatments and improved healthcare systems. Nevertheless, it remains a significant health concern in regions with limited access to medical care and where tuberculosis is prevalent.
