Diphtheria

Overview

Diphtheria is a rare bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Although vaccination has reduced its incidence, it remains a serious health concern in some regions.

Types of Diphtheria

1. Classical Respiratory Diphtheria:
   • Affects the nose, throat, tonsils, and larynx.
   • Key symptoms: sore throat, swollen neck glands, weakness, and the formation of a thick gray membrane (pseudomembrane) in the throat.
2. Cutaneous Diphtheria:
   • Rare type affecting the skin.
   • Presents as painful ulcers covered by a gray membrane.
   • More common in tropical climates and crowded living conditions.

Causes of Diphtheria

• C. diphtheriae bacteria multiply on or near the throat or skin.
• Transmission:
  • Airborne droplets (coughing, sneezing).
  • Contact with contaminated items (used tissues, towels).
• Carriers can spread the infection without showing symptoms.

Risk Factors of Diphtheria

• Age: Children under 5 and adults over 60 are more vulnerable.
• Vaccination: Lack of immunization increases risk.
• Hygiene: Unsanitary conditions contribute.
• Immune System: Weakened immunity raises susceptibility.

Symptoms of Diphtheria

Preventions of Diphtheria

• Vaccination: Follow recommended schedules.
• Antibiotics: Preventive therapy for close contacts.
• Hygiene: Maintain cleanliness and sanitation.

Diagnosis of Diphtheria

1. Clinical Presentation:

   • Healthcare providers often diagnose diphtheria based on clinical signs and symptoms.
   • Key features include a sore throat with a gray membrane covering the tonsils and throat.
   • If diphtheria is suspected, treatment begins immediately, even before the results of bacterial tests are available.

2. Laboratory Confirmation:

   • To confirm the diagnosis, doctors collect specimens from the throat membrane.
   • A lab culture identifies the growth of Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
   • For cutaneous diphtheria (which affects the skin), doctors may test tissue samples from infected wounds.

Treatment for Diphtheria

1. Immediate and Aggressive Approach:

   • Diphtheria is a serious illness, so prompt treatment is crucial.
   • Ensure the airway isn’t blocked or compromised.
   • In severe cases, a breathing tube (tracheostomy) may be necessary.

2. Antibiotics:

   • Antibiotics (e.g., penicillin or erythromycin) help kill the bacteria and clear the infection.
   • They also reduce the contagious period.
   • Treatment begins even before bacterial test results are available.

3. Antitoxin:

   • An antitoxin counteracts the diphtheria toxin in the body.
   • It’s injected into a vein or muscle.
   • Skin allergy tests are done to ensure no allergies to the antitoxin.

4. Hospitalization:

   • Children and adults with diphtheria often require hospitalization.
   • Isolation in an intensive care unit prevents further spread.
   • Diphtheria can easily transmit to unvaccinated individuals.

When to seek medical attention ?

• If exposed to someone with diphtheria, seek medical attention promptly.
• Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date