A36.9

Clinical Causes: Infection with the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae Person-to-person contact through respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes touching contaminated objects or surfaces that harbor the bacteria Close contact with an infected individual who has active symptoms Poor vaccination coverage increasing vulnerability

Key Symptoms: Sore throat and difficulty swallowing Gray or white coating on the throat and tonsils Fever and chills Swelling of the neck due to lymph node enlargement Malaise and fatigue Difficulty breathing due to airway obstruction Skin lesions in cutaneous diphtheria (less common)

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing diphtheria involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory testing. Healthcare providers will examine the signs and symptoms, especially the characteristic gray membrane in the throat. Throat swabs or tissue samples are collected to identify Corynebacterium diphtheriae through culture or PCR testing. Additional tests might be performed to assess the severity of the infection and any complications. Since diphtheria can be rapidly progressive and life-threatening, prompt diagnosis is essential.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment of diphtheria requires immediate medical intervention, typically involving antibiotics such as erythromycin or penicillin to eradicate the bacteria. Additionally, an injection of diphtheria antitoxin may be administered to neutralize the toxin produced by the bacteria. Patients may require hospitalization, particularly if airway management or supportive care is needed. Isolation precautions are important to prevent spread. Recovery depends on early detection and appropriate treatment, with some cases potentially leading to complications like myocarditis or nerve damage if not addressed promptly.