The term is applied to those peculiar suppurative and ulcerative conditions of the skin due to the tubercle bacilli.
How does the common type of tuberculosis cutis begin?
The most common type of tuberculous ulceration or involvement of the skin usually results by extension from an underlying caseating and suppurating lymphatic gland; or it may have its origin as subcutaneous tubercles independently of these structures. It tends to spread, and may involve an area of one or several inches.
Fig. 48.
Tuberculosis Verrucosa Cutis (Negro).
What are the clinical appearances and behavior of this type of tuberculous ulceration?
It is usually superficial, has thin, red, undermined edges of a violaceous color, and an irregular base with granulations covered scantily with pus. As a rule, it spreads gradually as a simple ulceration, with but slight, if any, outlying infiltration. Subjective symptoms of a painful or troublesome character are rarely present. Its course is usually progressive but slow and chronic.
Other symptoms of tuberculosis are commonly to be found.