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Respiratory diphtheria classically begins as an upper respiratory tract infection. Local toxin production causes a pseudomembrane to form on the pharynx or larynx and can cause a markedly swollen “bull” neck. If diphtheria is suspected, diphtheria antitoxin should be given as soon as possible as culture results can be delayed. Absorption of diphtheria toxin can lead to cardiac, neurological and renal complications.

Cardiac toxicity may occur acutely but often occurs seven to 14 days after respiratory symptom onset; neurological involvement, particularly bulbar weakness and other cranial neuropathies, may not appear for weeks to months. Neurological manifestations of diphtheria usually resolve completely but require supportive, multidisciplinary care.

This MJA medical education shares more.

Learning Outcomes

1. Explain key components of the medical education
2. List main findings
3. Identify sporadic cases that have occurred in well vaccinated people to investigate locally acquired cases.

Details

Author: Simon Smith, James Stewart, Joshua Hanson, Julian Harris, Fred JJ Chuang, Gavin Quail, Bryan Hawarden, Roshni Lad, Shannon McNee, Benjamin McCartney, Tonia Marquardt, Ian Wilson, Catherine Tacon and Bernard CS Whitfield

Article Type: Medical Education