The formation of a Ghon complex begins when Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria are inhaled and reach the alveoli in the lungs. The immune system responds to the infection by recruiting macrophages to the site. These macrophages engulf the bacteria but often fail to destroy them, leading to the formation of granulomas. Over time, the central area of the granuloma undergoes caseous necrosis, forming the Ghon focus. The bacteria can then travel via lymphatic vessels to the regional lymph nodes, leading to their involvement and completing the Ghon complex.
