Scrofula

Scrofula is the term applied to tuberculosis of the neck.  It is the most common form of tuberculosis infection that occurs outside the lungs.

Historically, scrofula was called the “king’s evil.” Until the 18th century, doctors thought the only way to cure the disease was to be touched by a member of a royal family.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium, is the most common cause of scrofula in adults. However, Mycobacterium avium intracellulare can also cause scrofula in a minority of cases.

Scrofula represents 10 percent of tuberculosis cases doctors diagnose in the USA.