20. Tuberculoma of the lungs

Essay 20- Tuberculoma of the lungs

This is a specific type of tuberculosis lesion that can develop within the lung tissue
Tuberculomas are essentially granulomas, which are small, localized areas of inflammation, that have grown larger and more solid

These granulomas are a result of the body's immune response to the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Tuberculomas are a manifestation of latent TB infection, where the immune system has successfully contained the bacteria within granulomas

TB is typically transmitted through the inhalation of airborne droplets containing Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Bacteria enter the lungs and may infect the alveolar macrophages
In response to the infection, the innate immune system is activated. Neutrophils and macrophages are recruited to the site of infection to engulf and attempt to kill the bacteria
As the immune response continues, granulomas start to form
They are organized structures composed of immune cells, primarily macrophages and T lymphocytes
The bacteria within the granulomas become dormant, leading to a state of latent TB infection

Tuberculomas often do not cause the classic symptoms of cough, chest pain, fever, or weight loss
In many cases, individuals with tuberculomas may be asymptomatic or have very mild respiratory symptoms
If symptoms do appear, haemoptysis and pleural pain are the most frequent

Sputum samples to look for tubercle bacilli
Mantoux test
Radiography- tuberculomas may be single or multiple, from 1-5cm or more in diameter
Typically present as solitary, well-defined nodules or masses
Appear as areas of increased density in the lung tissue compared to the surrounding healthy lung.
This increased density is due to the accumulation of immune cells, fibrous tissue, and bacteria within the granuloma
Can appear in any part of the lung