Tuberculous arthritis of the ankle joint
Object numberGC.2836
TitleTuberculous arthritis of the ankle joint
DescriptionTuberculous arthritis of the ankle joint
This arthritis is caused by caused by infection of the joint with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While TB is most commonly associated with the lungs, it can affect any part of the body. In joints it can lead to serious destruction of the joint and tendon, while also spreading to the surrounding bursa, muscles and soft tissues.
From a female aged 43 years in whom the arthritis followed a tuberculous abscess of the tibia (The tibia can be seen at GC.2834 and GC.2835). Some years previously she had tuberculosis of the cervical lymph nodes with abscess formation. The foot had troubled her during three years and a sinus had formed medially and on the dorsum.
The preparation is the lateral half of the left foot in sagittal section
A considerable area anteriorly of the trochlea of the talus is deprived of its cartilage of encrustation beyond the ragged margin of which the bone is exposed. Within the cancellous bone of the calcaneum (heel) near the sustentaculum tali an irregular area of destruction is probably a tuberculous manifestation.
Production periodNineteenth century
Object nameJOINT, ankle
Object categoryAnatomical, specimen
Dimensions
- Jar Height: 21 cm
Diameter: 13 cm