HomeAnswersPulmonology (Asthma Doctors)latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI)

What could be the cause of a lump on a previous TB surgical site?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had contracted TB in the past. I was put on medication by my doctor for nine months. But now, the only thing is mucus gets stuck in my throat, which I try to remove, but I have noticed that a small ball-like structure is present in the same place where the surgery was done. Please suggest to me what should I do. Is there a way to prevent this from happening again?

Please help.

Answered by Dr. Vandana Andrews

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query.

Based on the information you provided, the small ball-like structure you are noticing may be a residual scar or lymph node from the previous surgery. It is common for scars to feel different from the surrounding tissue, and this structure may be simply a remnant of the surgery.

However, it is also possible that this could be a sign of a recurrence of TB. TB can sometimes reactivate or spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes. If you are experiencing any other symptoms that could indicate TB, such as fever, night sweats, or weight loss, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

In terms of preventing a recurrence of TB, there are several things you can do:

1. Take your medication as prescribed: If you were prescribed medication to treat TB in the past, it is important to take all of your doses as instructed by your healthcare provider. This will help ensure that the bacteria are eliminated from your body.

2. Get vaccinated: If you have not already been vaccinated against TB, speak with your healthcare provider about getting the vaccine. The vaccine can help prevent the initial infection from occurring.

3. Practice good hygiene: To prevent the spread of TB, it is important to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and avoid close contact with people who have active TB.

4. Get regular check-ups: Even if you are feeling healthy and symptom-free, it is important to get regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your health and ensure that there are no signs of TB or other health issues.

Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. If you have any concerns or symptoms that could indicate a health issue, speak with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can help provide guidance and support to ensure that you stay healthy and happy. Based on the information you provided, the small ball-like structure you are noticing may be a residual scar or lymph node from the previous surgery. It is common for scars to feel different from the surrounding tissue, and this structure may be simply a remnant of the surgery.

Hope it helps.

Thanks and regards.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 21, 2024
Reviewed At April 2, 2024

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Listen to related tracks in our music library
Comprehensive Second Opinion

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.