Peaky Blinders viewers were dealt a killer punch in the guts this week when their favourite anti-hero Tommy Shelby was diagnosed with Tuberculoma.
But what exactly is it, will it kill him, and is it contagious?
And is it still possible to get the illness now?
Here’s everything you need to know about Tommy Shelby’s condition in Peaky Blinders…
***Warning: spoilers from episode 4 of Peaky Blinders season 6 ahead***
Read more: Is Peaky Blinders real and what does the name actually mean?
What is Tommy Shelby’s illness Tuberculoma in Peaky Blinders?
Tuberculoma is a mass of tuberculosis – it becomes a firm lump and can be dangerous if not treated.
The tubercula growth is caused by the same bacteria as TB – TB stands for Tuberculosis.
Doctors can easily mistake a tubercula mass for cancer tumours.
Over time, tuberculosis can transform into crystals of calcium which can affect any organ such as the brain, intestine, ovaries, and lungs.
In Tommy Shelby’s case, the growth is at the stem of his brain so operating is not an option.
Tuberculoma of the brain is a rare and serious form of tuberculosis.
Can you die of it?
Tuberculoma is treatable, depending on where the growth is.
Doctors can treat Tuberculoma of the brain nowadays, thanks to advanced medicine.
They can prescribe steroids to control and even cure the growth.
The growth can also be operated on and removed, depending on where it is.
Sufferers are at risk of strokes, seizures and hallucinations.
In Tommy’s case, he will consequently die of the condition as his is inoperable due to its location.
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