Diphtheria Learning Center
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Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae. |
Basic Info
Symptoms
Symptoms usually occur 2 to 5 days after you have come in contact with the bacteria. Bluish coloration of the skin; B...
Causes
Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets (such as those produced by a cough or sneeze) of an infected person o...
Tests
The health care provider will perform a physical exam and look inside your mouth. This may reveal a gray-to-black cov...
Treatments
If the health care provider thinks you have diphtheria, treatment should be started immediately, even before test res...
Drugs
Diphtheria is a potentially fatal, contagious disease that usually involves the nose, throat, and air passages but ma...
Risk Factors
- Exposure to Contaminated Food
- Weakened Immune System
- Exposure to Contaminated Substance
Complications
The most common complication is inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis. The nervous system is also frequently ...
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 a person who has diphtheria. Remember that diphthe...
Basic Info
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