Ghormeh sabzi

Ghon complex is a medical term referring to a lesion seen in the lung that is caused by primary tuberculosis. The lesions consist of a Ghon focus (a small area of granulomatous inflammation) and the corresponding lymph node involvement. The Ghon complex is named after the Austrian pathologist Anton Ghon who first described it in the early 20th century.

Overview

The Ghon complex is a primary lesion usually subpleural, often in the mid to lower zones, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacilli transported via the airways. The complex is often asymptomatic and it is only identified on a chest radiograph taken for another reason. The Ghon focus is the initial lesion in pulmonary tuberculosis. It is a small, gray, granular area of consolidation, containing tubercle bacilli, macrophages, and other cells.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of the Ghon complex starts with the inhalation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria are engulfed by alveolar macrophages but they avoid destruction by inhibiting phagolysosomes. The macrophages carry the bacilli via the lymphatics to the regional lymph nodes. This combination of a Ghon focus and regional lymph node involvement is known as the primary or Ghon complex.

Clinical significance

The Ghon complex itself is usually asymptomatic and it is often calcified in adults. However, it can be a significant finding as it is often associated with active tuberculosis. The presence of a Ghon complex can be an important clue in the diagnosis of tuberculosis, especially in children.

See also

• Tuberculosis
• Ghon's focus
• Ranke complex

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