Diphtheria

Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It is highly contagious and can spread through droplet transmission such as during breathing, coughing, speaking, and even laughing.

The disease is most often associated with a sore throat, fever, and the development of an adherent membrane known as pseudomembrane on the throat. The bacteria also produces exotoxins that can damage the heart, lungs, kidney, and nerves. 

Diphtheria was a very common cause of death in children and adolescents in the 1920s. Proper vaccination that starts from infancy has reduced the number of cases to a larger extent.

The main risk factors for developing diphtheria are not being immunized against the disease and other factors like crowding, weak immunity, and direct or indirect contact with an infected individual.

Diagnosis is made by the patient's history and physical examination. Culture of Corynebacterium from the patient yields a definitive diagnosis although the patient should be treated if diphtheria is even suspected. The treatment of diphtheria includes early administration of antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin.