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Diphtheria
Medical Questions » Diphtheria
| Name: Diphtheria |
| Also known as: |
| Childhood respiratory infection that is now rare in developed countries. |
Causes of Diphtheria
Infection of the throat and trachea (the tube leading to the lungs) by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheria which releases a toxin that is responsible for most of the symptoms and complications. Spreads from one person to another in the breath. Incubation period two to seven days. |
Symptoms of Diphtheria
Sore swollen throat, fever, nasal discharge, hoarse voice, overwhelming tiredness, weakness and muscle aches. A thick, Grey, sticky discharge forms a membrane across the throat that the patient constantly fights to clear. |
Tests for Diphtheria
Diagnosis confirmed by throat swabs, and heart involvement by an electrocardiograph (ECG). |
Treatment for Diphtheria
Rapid, early treatment is critical and involves diphtheria antitoxin injection, antibiotics (kill the bacteria but do not remove the toxin), and medications to control or prevent complications. In severe cases a tracheotomy (cut into the front of the throat) is performed to allow air into the lungs. Totally prevented by vaccination in infancy.
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Complications of Diphtheria of its treatment
May affect the heart, nose, skin and nerves. Survivors may be affected for life by damage to the heart or lungs. |
Likely Outcome of Diphtheria
Death rate varies from 10% to 30%, and most deaths occur within the first day or two. Survivors improve in a few days, but must be kept at rest for at least three weeks to prevent complications, as it will take this time for all the toxin to be removed from the body. |
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