MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Gumma

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Gumma

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition	Causes

Illustrations

Male and female reproductive systems

Definition Return to top

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

Causes Return to top

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

Similar-looking sores sometimes occur with tuberculosis.

Update Date: 11/1/2007

Updated by: Kenneth M Wener, M.D., Department of Infectious Diseases, Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by Verimed Healthcare Network.

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