Etymed
tuberculosis
Definition
a bacterial infection that typically affects the lungs and is characterized by the formation of tubercles (small bumps or nodules) in affected tissues
Clinical context
A 35-year-old homeless man presents with a two-week history of cough, weight loss, and night sweats. Chest X-ray shows upper lobe infiltrates with cavitation. Acid-fast bacilli are found on sputum smear. The patient is diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis. A 45-year-old healthcare worker presents with a persistent cough and fever. Tuberculin skin test is positive, and chest X-ray reveals bilateral infiltrates. This patient has developed active tuberculosis despite previous exposure.
Mnemonic
TUBERCULOSIS - TUBERCLES in the LUNG, LOOK like CAVITIES, and cause Cough with Cavitary lesions
These morphemes also unlock…
- tubercul/o — small swelling; tubercle
- -osis — abnormal condition