Bubo disease is another name for bubonic plague, characterized by swollen, painful lymph nodes called buboes.
In more detail:
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What is a Bubo? A bubo is a swollen, tender, and inflamed lymph node. These nodes are part of your immune system and filter harmful substances. In bubonic plague, the Yersinia pestis bacteria infects the lymph nodes, causing them to swell significantly.
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Bubonic Plague: Bubo disease is specifically the bubonic form of the plague. The plague can also manifest as septicemic plague (bloodstream infection) or pneumonic plague (lung infection).
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Where do Buboes Appear? Buboes typically develop in the groin, armpits, or neck – areas where lymph nodes are concentrated.
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Symptoms: Besides the buboes, other symptoms of bubonic plague include:
- Sudden onset of fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Extreme exhaustion
- Muscle pain
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Cause: Bubo disease is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, usually transmitted to humans through the bite of infected fleas that have fed on rodents like rats, squirrels, and prairie dogs.
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Treatment: Bubonic plague is treatable with antibiotics, especially if treatment is started early. Without prompt treatment, the infection can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.
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Importance of Early Diagnosis: Recognizing the symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention are critical for successful treatment and preventing complications.
Bubo disease, or bubonic plague, refers to the condition where a person has swollen and painful lymph nodes (buboes), typically due to infection with Yersinia pestis.