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Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by the toxin-producing bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae .
Basic Info
Symptoms
Sore throat (may range from mild to severe; Painful swallowing; Hoarseness; Drooling (suggests airway blockage is about...
Causes
Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets (such as those produced by a cough or sneeze) of an infected person or ...
Tests
The health care provider will perform a physical exam and look inside your mouth. This may reveal a gray-to-black cover...
Treatments
If the health care provider thinks you have diphtheria, treatment should be started immediately, even before test resul...
Drugs
Cutaneous diphtheria is usually treated by cleansing the wound thoroughly with soap and water and giving an individual ...
Risk Factors
- Exposure to Contaminated Food
- Exposure to Contaminated Substance
- Exposure to Respiratory Secretion
Complications
The diphtheria toxin can damage the heart, nervous system, kidneys, or other organs. This may lead to: Myocarditis, whi...
Prevention
Routine childhood immunizations and adult boosters prevent the disease. See diphtheria immunization (vaccine.
Doctor Specialties
Contact your health care provider if you have come in contact with diphtheria. Remember that diphtheria is a rare disea...
Basic Info
In Depth
In Depth
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