How Do You Spell SKIN TUBERCULOSIS?

1. Skin tuberculosis, also known as cutaneous tuberculosis, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is a specific form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that affects the skin, resulting in the development of various skin lesions or nodules. These skin lesions commonly appear on exposed body parts, such as the face, arms, and legs.

   Skin tuberculosis is typically acquired through direct contact with an active pulmonary tuberculosis infection or through the dissemination of the bacterium from other organs in the body. It can also be transmitted through contaminated objects or by autoinoculation.

   The clinical presentation of skin tuberculosis varies and includes several distinct forms. The most common form is lupus vulgaris, which presents as reddish-brown plaques or nodules on the skin. Other forms include scrofuloderma, which forms abscesses or ulcers, and papulonecrotic tuberculid, which presents as papules that enlarge and ulcerate.

   Diagnosis of skin tuberculosis involves a thorough physical examination, laboratory tests (e.g., acid-fast bacilli staining), and a skin biopsy for definitive identification of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. Treatment usually involves a combination of anti-tuberculosis medications, such as isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide, for several months to achieve complete resolution.

   While skin tuberculosis can be curable, delayed diagnosis or inadequate treatment can lead to progressive tissue destruction and potential complications. Therefore, early recognition and prompt treatment are crucial to achieve favorable outcomes and prevent further transmission.

Common Misspellings for SKIN TUBERCULOSIS

The word "tuberculosis" has its roots in the Latin word "tuberculum", which means a small swelling or protuberance. It was first used in English in the late 19th century to specifically refer to a disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, affecting various parts of the body, especially the lungs.

The term "skin tuberculosis" or "cutaneous tuberculosis" refers to tuberculosis that affects the skin. It is a form of extrapulmonary (outside the lungs) tuberculosis where the infection spreads to the skin from other organs.

The word "skin" comes from the Old Norse word "skinn", which means hide or pelt. The term "skin tuberculosis" therefore simply indicates the specific manifestation of tuberculosis on the skin.