MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Ghon complex, a radiologically detectable finding characteristic of primary tuberculosis (or TB), was first reported by Anton Ghon, an Austrian pathologist. It refers to the presence of a pulmonary lesion, known as Ghon lesion or Ghon focus, along with ipsilateral hilar lymph node involvement.

Detailed explanation-2: -The lesions consist of a Ghon focus along with pulmonary lymphadenopathy within a nearby pulmonary lymph node. A Ghon’s complex retains viable bacteria, making them sources of long-term infection, which may reactivate and trigger secondary tuberculosis later in life.

Detailed explanation-3: -Secondary tuberculosis differs in clinical presentation from the primary progressive disease. In secondary disease, the tissue reaction and hypersensitivity are more severe, and patients usually form cavities in the upper portion of the lungs.

Detailed explanation-4: -Most individuals who develop tuberculosis do so after an extended latency period, often many years after the initial primary infection. This is known as reactivation disease or secondary tuberculosis.

Detailed explanation-5: -The Ghon complex is a non-pathognomonic radiographic finding on a chest x-ray that is significant for pulmonary infection of tuberculosis. The location of the Ghon’s focus is usually subpleural and predominantly in the upper part of the lower lobe and lower part of the middle or upper lobe.