Bubo

Definition

A bubo is a swollen, inflamed lymph node often caused by bacterial infections such as Yersinia pestis in bubonic plague. It typically appears in the groin, armpit, or neck.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Buboes are characteristic of the bubonic form of plague but can also occur in other bacterial infections like tularemia and cat scratch disease.
2. They usually appear within a few days after infection and can be very painful to touch.
3. The swelling of a bubo is due to an accumulation of immune cells and bacteria within the lymph node.
4. Diagnosis often involves examining fluid aspirated from the bubo to identify the causative organism.
5. Treatment generally includes antibiotics such as streptomycin or doxycycline.

Related terms

Lymphadenopathy:

Enlargement of lymph nodes which may or may not be painful.

Yersinia pestis:

The bacterium responsible for causing bubonic plague.

Septicemia:

A systemic infection where bacteria enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to sepsis.