Diphtheria, a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection, was once a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. While vaccination programs have significantly reduced its incidence, diphtheria remains a concern in regions with low vaccination coverage and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Recognizing the signs of diphtheria is crucial for prompt diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of its spread. Here’s a comprehensive guide to identifying the signs of diphtheria:
- Sore Throat: Diphtheria typically begins with a sore throat, which may initially resemble a common cold or viral pharyngitis. The sore throat may worsen over time and become increasingly painful, particularly during swallowing.
- Low-Grade Fever: Fever is a common symptom of diphtheria, although it may not always be present. The fever is usually low-grade, ranging from 38°C to 39°C (100.4°F to 102.2°F).
- Grey or White Pseudomembrane: One of the hallmark signs of diphtheria is the formation of a grey or white pseudomembrane in the throat or nasal passages. This membrane consists of dead tissue, fibrin, and bacterial colonies and can cause airway obstruction if left untreated.
- Difficulty Breathing: As the pseudomembrane enlarges, it can obstruct the airway, leading to difficulty breathing, stridor (a high-pitched sound during inhalation), and respiratory distress. Severe cases may progress to respiratory failure and require emergency medical intervention.
- Hoarseness or Change in Voice: Diphtheria can affect the larynx (voice box), leading to hoarseness or a change in voice quality. This symptom may accompany throat discomfort and difficulty swallowing.
- Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Swollen and tender lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) in the neck, also known as “bull neck,” are characteristic of severe diphtheria infections. Lymphadenopathy reflects the body’s immune response to the bacterial toxins produced by Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
- Malaise and Weakness: Diphtheria can cause systemic symptoms such as malaise, weakness, and fatigue. Patients may feel lethargic and experience a general sense of unwellness.
- Nasal Congestion or Discharge: Some individuals with diphtheria may experience nasal congestion or discharge, particularly if the infection extends to the nasal passages.
- Skin Lesions: In cutaneous diphtheria, a less common form of the disease, skin lesions may develop at the site of a wound or scratch. These lesions are characterized by ulceration, inflammation, and a grayish-white membrane similar to that seen in the throat.
- Neurological Complications: In severe cases of diphtheria, the bacterial toxin may affect the nervous system, leading to neurological complications such as paralysis (diphtheritic polyneuropathy), including cranial nerve palsies and limb weakness.
It’s essential to seek medical attention promptly if you or someone you know exhibits any signs or symptoms of diphtheria, especially if there is suspicion of exposure to the bacterium or inadequate vaccination coverage. Treatment typically involves administering antibiotics to eradicate the bacterial infection and antitoxin to neutralize the effects of the diphtheria toxin.
Prevention of diphtheria primarily relies on vaccination with the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) vaccine or the diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis (DTaP) vaccine. Routine childhood immunization, booster doses in adolescence and adulthood, and timely vaccination during outbreaks are crucial for maintaining immunity and preventing the spread of diphtheria.
In conclusion, awareness of the signs and symptoms of diphtheria is essential for early detection, prompt treatment, and prevention of complications. Vaccination remains the cornerstone of diphtheria prevention efforts, emphasizing the importance of adherence to immunization schedules and maintaining high vaccination coverage rates within communities. Through vigilance, timely intervention, and comprehensive vaccination programs, we can continue to control and ultimately eliminate the threat of diphtheria.
