Adenosis scrophulosa is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by the enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes, commonly affected in scrofula. Scrofula is a historical term used to describe the swelling of lymph nodes in the neck region, often due to an underlying tuberculosis infection.
The term "adenosis" refers to any pathological condition affecting the glands, while "scrophulosa" specifically denotes the involvement of the lymph nodes. Adenosis scrophulosa is typically associated with the formation of granulomas, which are small nodules formed by immune cells in response to the infection.
In individuals with adenosis scrophulosa, the affected lymph nodes may become swollen, firm, and tender to the touch. This swelling is a result of the immune system's attempt to contain and fight off the infection. The condition can be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats.
Modern medical advancements have significantly reduced the prevalence of adenosis scrophulosa, particularly due to the effective treatment and prevention of tuberculosis. However, in rare cases where tuberculosis or other chronic infections are present, this condition may still occur.
The diagnosis of adenosis scrophulosa is typically made through a combination of clinical examination, medical history assessment, and imaging tests such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan to visualize the affected lymph nodes. Treatment usually involves addressing the underlying cause, such as administering antibiotics for bacterial infections or antitubercular medications for tuberculosis. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain or remove affected lymph nodes.
