What is a bubo?

A bubo is defined as an infected lymph node, typically characterized by swelling and tenderness. This condition often arises during infections, particularly with pathogens such as the bacterium that causes bubonic plague or during certain viral infections like those associated with lymphogranuloma venereum. When an infection occurs, the lymph nodes may become overwhelmed with pathogens and immune cells, resulting in the formation of a bubo as the body’s immune response attempts to fight off the invading organisms.

This distinctive presentation is a focal point for medical evaluation, as it can help healthcare providers identify the underlying infectious cause and initiate appropriate treatment. In contrast, the other options provide different concepts related to the immune system: antibodies are proteins produced by B-cells to neutralize pathogens, T-cells are essential white blood cells that play a crucial role in cell-mediated immunity, and immunity itself refers to the body’s ability to resist infectious diseases. Thus, while these terms are relevant to the immune system, they do not align with the specific definition of a bubo.