bubonic

Bubonic refers to buboes, the painful swollen lymph nodes that are a hallmark of bubonic plague, the form most commonly associated with the bacterium Yersinia pestis. The term is sometimes used to describe conditions with similar lymphadenopathy, but it is most often linked to plague.

Cause and transmission: Y. pestis is typically transmitted to humans by bites from infected fleas that have fed on rodents. Human-to-human transmission is possible in the pneumonic form, but bubonic plague itself is usually not contagious. After an incubation of about 2 to 6 days, symptoms include fever, malaise, and painful swollen lymph nodes called buboes.

Buboes commonly appear in the groin, armpit, or neck and may ulcerate or suppurate. If untreated, infection can spread to the bloodstream or lungs, causing septicemic or pneumonic plague with higher mortality. Diagnosis relies on clinical signs supported by laboratory detection of Y. pestis.

Treatment consists of antibiotics such as streptomycin, gentamicin, doxycycline, or ciprofloxacin, ideally begun early. Supportive care is important, and public health measures focus on flea control and reducing rodent contact to prevent outbreaks.

Historically, bubonic plague has caused major pandemics, including the Black Death in the 14th century. Today, cases are rare but occur in various regions; effective antibiotics and public health control reduce mortality and spread.

Etymology: The term derives from Latin bubo, meaning a swollen lymph node.