Pinta
Pinta
Pinta (pronounced: pin-ta) is a tropical disease caused by the bacterium Treponema carateum. It is one of the three diseases in the group of endemic treponematoses, the other two being yaws and bejel.
Etymology
The term "Pinta" is derived from the Spanish word for "painted," which describes the skin discoloration caused by the disease.
Symptoms
Pinta is characterized by skin lesions that change color over time. The initial stage involves the appearance of a primary lesion, a red, scaly patch on the skin. This is followed by a secondary stage where multiple patches appear on the body. In the final stage, the patches may turn blue or red-brown.
Transmission
Pinta is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. The bacterium Treponema carateum enters the skin through minor cuts or abrasions.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Pinta is usually based on clinical signs and a history of exposure. Laboratory tests, such as serology and dark-field microscopy, can also be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Pinta can be effectively treated with a single dose of penicillin. In cases of penicillin allergy, other antibiotics such as doxycycline or tetracycline can be used.
Prevention
Prevention of Pinta involves avoiding direct skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals. Public health measures, such as health education and improved living conditions, can also help to reduce the spread of the disease.
Related Terms
- Treponema carateum
- Endemic treponematoses
- Yaws
- Bejel
- Tropical disease
- Penicillin
- Doxycycline
- Tetracycline
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pinta
- Wikipedia's article - Pinta
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