Scrofula

Scrofula is a lymph node disease that is typically associated with tuberculosis. It is also known as the King's Evil, and was historically believed to be curable by a king's touch.

Causes

Scrofula is primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis. However, it can also be caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria. A person can get scrofula through breathing in the bacteria, which then travels to the lymph nodes in the neck.

Symptoms

The main symptom of scrofula is the presence of a chronic, painless mass in the neck, which is actually an enlarged lymph node. Other symptoms can include fever, weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of scrofula can be challenging, as the symptoms are similar to many other diseases. Doctors may use a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests to diagnose the condition. These tests may include a tuberculin skin test, blood tests, and a biopsy of the lymph node.

Treatment

Treatment for scrofula typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the affected lymph nodes.

See also

• Tuberculosis
• Lymph node
• Mycobacterium tuberculosis

References

Scrofula Resources
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