Tuberculosis Meaning and Definition
Tuberculosis
Pronunciation
/tʊbərˈkjuːləsɪs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, typically affecting the lungs, and characterized by the formation of lesions.
Examples
- The patient was diagnosed with tuberculosis after experiencing persistent coughing and fatigue.
- Tuberculosis is a serious public health issue in many developing countries.
Synonyms
- TB
- BBC
Antonyms
- Pneumonia
- Respiratory Health
Additional Information
Tuberculosis is a highly infectious disease that can be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is generally treated with antibiotics, and early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing complications and improving patient outcomes.
Tuberculosis has been a major public health issue throughout history, with the disease playing a significant role in the development of modern medicine. Today, the World Health Organization reports that there are millions of new cases of tuberculosis diagnosed each year, with the majority occurring in developing countries.
Etymology
The term “tuberculosis” comes from the Latin words “tuberculum,” meaning swelling or lump, and “osis,” meaning condition or disease. The disease was first described by the German physician Jean-Antoine Villemin in 1865.
Usage Notes
When referring to tuberculosis, it is important to use the term “TB” to avoid confusion with other diseases or conditions that may share similar symptoms. It is also important to use proper medical terminology when discussing the disease, as using slang or colloquial terms can perpetuate misunderstandings and stigma.
Cultural References
Tuberculosis has been referenced in various cultural works, including literature, art, and film. For example, the disease was a major theme in Victor Hugo’s novel “Les Misérables,” and has been featured in films such as “The Painted Veil” and “Cry Freedom.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“TB” is often used as an abbreviation for tuberculosis in everyday language, but it can also be used more broadly to refer to any disease or condition that is rare or unusual.
Related Words or Phrases
Other related terms include “pneumonia,” “tubercle,” and “mycobacteria.”
Collocations
Tuberculosis is often collocated with words such as “infectious,” “contagious,” “treatable,” and “curable.”
Frequency of Use
Tuberculosis is a relatively rare disease in developed countries, but it is still a major public health issue in many developing countries. The term is often used in medical and health-related contexts, but it is not commonly used in everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of tuberculosis include “Tuburculosis,” “Tuburcalosis,” and “Tuberculosis.”