Wednesday, February, 15, 2012

Gumma

Table of Contents

Definition

A gumma is a soft, tumor-like growth of the tissues (granuloma).


Causes, incidence, and risk factors

A gumma is caused by syphilis. It appears during late-stage tertiary syphilis. It usually contains a mass of dead and swollen fiber-like tissue, and occurs most often in the liver. It also can occur in the:

  • Bone
  • Brain
  • Heart
  • Skin
  • Testis
  • Eyes

Similar-looking sores sometimes occur with tuberculosis.



Review Date: 07/26/2009
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)