Scrofula

See also : Tuberculosis (TB)
Scrofula is the term used for tuberculosis of the neck, or, more precisely, a cervical tuberculous lymphadenopathy. Scrofula is usually a result of an infection in the lymph nodes, known as lymphadenitis and is most often observed in immunocompromised patients (about 50% of cervical tuberculous lymphadenopathy). About 95% of the scrofula cases in adults are caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, but only 8% of cases in children. The rest are caused by atypical mycobacterium (Mycobacterium scrofulaceum) or nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM). With the stark decrease of tuberculosis in the second half of the 20th century, scrofula became a very rare disease. With the appearance of AIDS, however, it has shown a resurgence, and presently affects about 5% of severely immunocompromised patients.

Symptoms

• Itching.
• Peeling of the skin.
• At the beginning of the disease there can be noticed small focal points, but after a few days the whole scalp may be covered with a crust of scrofulous.
• In addition to the head, scrofula can also spread to the face.
• Scrofulous peeling has whitish- gray color and irregular shape of fungus, but the hair remains in a healthy condition at the same time.
• In addition to the main manifestations of the disease, there may be secondary symptoms, such as inflammation of the eyes, swelling of the joints, bloating, dischargeexcretions from the ears and nose, even convulsions.

Home remedies

A decoction of 2 OZ. of the Dandelion herb or root in 1 quart of water, boiled down to a pint, is taken in doses of one wineglassful every three hours for scurvy, scrofula, eczema and all eruptions on the surface of the body.

Warnings

Many believe that scrofula is a harmless disease that goes away after a while. Unfortunately, it does not. You should always remember that if scrofula is not treated and the flow of the disease takes its course, after a while it may acquire a chronic form, which will later develop into a tuberculosis after some time.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.