Diphtheria is a serious infectious disease, which is tackle successfully in the developed world through vaccinations. Caused by the bacteria – Corynebacterium Diphtheriae, the disease continues to be a major risk in areas not covered well by immunization programs. India for instance reported 4071 cases in 2014, with 104 deaths. Altogether 7321 cases of Diphtheria were reported to the WHO in 2014.
Diphtheria usually affects the mucous membrane of the nose and throat, leading to sore throat, fever, swollen glands and weakness. The toxins spread through the blood stream and often cause a thick, grey coating to form in the nose, throat and tongue, obstructing the airways. Left untreated, Diphtheria can damage the heart, kidneys and the nervous …show more content…
The Diphtheria vaccine is usually combined with vaccines against Tetanus and Whooping Cough (Pertussis). The three in one known as DTP is a part of childhood immunization programs globally. The Indian Medical Association recommends the DPT vaccines for a child at 6 weeks, ten weeks and 14 weeks, followed by booster doses at 18 months and 4-5 years.
Diphtheria Diagnosis & Treatment:
The doctor will conduct a physical examination and check your mouth for grey or a black coating, which is a classic symptom of Diphtheria. He will also look for enlarged lymph glands and swelling of the neck and the larynx. Common lab tests for confirming the disgnosis include:
- Gram stain or throat culture to identify the bacteria
- Toxin assay to detect the presence of toxins
- Electrocardiogram
If Diphtheria is confirmed, or even suspected, the doctor will immediately start treatment by injecting the relevant antitoxin and will follow it up with antibiotics. You could be administered intravenous fluids and oxygen. Your heart, lungs and kidneys will be monitored. If you suffer from breathing problems, your doctor may prescribe a breathing tube and will treat the airway blockages. You will also be advice complete bed rest while recovering from the
Diphtheria usually affects the mucous membrane of the nose and throat, leading to sore throat, fever, swollen glands and weakness. The toxins spread through the blood stream and often cause a thick, grey coating to form in the nose, throat and tongue, obstructing the airways. Left untreated, Diphtheria can damage the heart, kidneys and the nervous …show more content…
The Diphtheria vaccine is usually combined with vaccines against Tetanus and Whooping Cough (Pertussis). The three in one known as DTP is a part of childhood immunization programs globally. The Indian Medical Association recommends the DPT vaccines for a child at 6 weeks, ten weeks and 14 weeks, followed by booster doses at 18 months and 4-5 years.
Diphtheria Diagnosis & Treatment:
The doctor will conduct a physical examination and check your mouth for grey or a black coating, which is a classic symptom of Diphtheria. He will also look for enlarged lymph glands and swelling of the neck and the larynx. Common lab tests for confirming the disgnosis include:
- Gram stain or throat culture to identify the bacteria
- Toxin assay to detect the presence of toxins
- Electrocardiogram
If Diphtheria is confirmed, or even suspected, the doctor will immediately start treatment by injecting the relevant antitoxin and will follow it up with antibiotics. You could be administered intravenous fluids and oxygen. Your heart, lungs and kidneys will be monitored. If you suffer from breathing problems, your doctor may prescribe a breathing tube and will treat the airway blockages. You will also be advice complete bed rest while recovering from the