Phthisiophobia

Phthisiphobia is the fear of getting tuberculosis. This condition is characterized by increased anxiety and worry at the thought of possible illness or contact with a patient with tuberculosis, as well as fears about the progression of the tuberculosis process, death from tuberculosis, and uncertainty about one’s future health in the event of contact with a patient. In addition, some people with phthisioma may experience negative emotions when thinking about people with tuberculosis. Phthisiphobia can be considered as a type of phobia in general with special medical roots and, possibly, some accompanying social, cultural or psychological specificity (pathomorphosis).