Tuberculous abscess

Tuberculous abscess is a type of abscess that is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. This bacterium is also responsible for tuberculosis, a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs.

Etiology

A tuberculous abscess is a localized collection of pus that is surrounded by inflamed tissue and is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. This bacterium is spread from person to person through tiny droplets released into the air via coughs and sneezes.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a tuberculous abscess can vary depending on the location of the abscess. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness in the area of the abscess. If the abscess is located in the lungs, symptoms may also include cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a tuberculous abscess typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. These tests may include a tuberculin skin test, a chest X-ray, and a sputum culture to identify the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Treatment

Treatment for a tuberculous abscess typically involves a combination of antibiotics to kill the bacteria and surgical drainage of the abscess. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the abscess.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for a tuberculous abscess is generally good. However, if left untreated, the abscess can lead to serious complications, including the spread of the infection to other parts of the body.

See also

• Tuberculosis
• Abscess
• Mycobacterium tuberculosis

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