Scrofuloderma Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Scrofuloderma is a type of skin tuberculosis that is characterized by the presence of nodules or nodules on the skin that are located over infected lymph nodes, bones or joints.
Over time, these nodules can break and become ulcers or sores, accompanied by granular tissue resembling grains at the base. This can also be accompanied by an occasional discharge of pus.
Symptoms
Scrofuloderma often begins with enlarged lymph nodes. Generally, lumps that arise are not accompanied by pain.
The size of scrofuloderma can also vary from small to large. As time goes by, the size can get bigger. and the number of enlargements can be more and more, which can then break and become ulcers. The parts of the body that most often experience scrofuloderma are the neck and armpits.
Reason
Scrofuloderma is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These bacteria can infect various organs in the body, including the skin organ.
The skin response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis can vary greatly once an infection has occurred. One type of disorder that can arise as a result of this is scrofuloderma.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of scrofuloderma can be determined based on the results of medical interviews, direct physical examinations, and certain supporting examinations.
Several types of supporting examinations that can be carried out are:
- Skin biopsy, medical personnel will take a small amount of skin tissue that is affected by the disorder for further evaluation in the laboratory.
- Tuberculin skin test
- Blood tests in the laboratory
Treatment
Similar to the treatment of tuberculosis, treatment of patients with scrofuloderma is generally carried out with antituberculosis drugs. The treatment involves a combination of several antibiotics. These drugs must be taken with strict rules, over a long period of time, namely six months to one year.
Sometimes, excision or removal of injured tissue on the skin is also necessary.
Prevention
Prevention of scrofuloderma can be done in line with efforts to prevent tuberculosis infection in general.
One thing that needs to be considered is to always maintain the immune system so that it is not easily infected with tuberculosis germs. Live a healthy lifestyle such as a healthy diet, regular physical activity, adequate rest, and other healthy efforts.