A SERIOUS VACCINE-PREVENTABLE BACTERIAL INFECTION
Diphtheria
A serious bacterial infection of the throat that forms a thick coating and causes breathing and swallowing difficulty, needing urgent antitoxin therapy, antibiotics and isolation.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and upper airway. The bacteria produce a toxin that leads to the formation of a thick grey-white coating on the tonsils and throat, which can cause severe pain, difficulty in swallowing and breathing problems. In severe cases, the toxin can affect the heart, nerves and kidneys. Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets and is very contagious. Although it has become rare due to widespread vaccination, cases still occur in unvaccinated or under-vaccinated populations. Urgent treatment with diphtheria antitoxin, antibiotics, airway support and isolation is essential. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides prompt evaluation and inpatient care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Infection with the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae
- Spread through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes
- Close contact with an infected or carrier individual
- Inadequate or missed childhood vaccination
- Crowded living conditions and poor hygiene
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical examination and throat swab for bacterial culture
Diphtheria antitoxin, antibiotic therapy and supportive care
Patients are isolated until they are no longer infectious
Some patients may need oxygen or breathing support
Routine vaccination as part of the childhood immunisation schedule
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Urgent Antitoxin & Antibiotic Therapy
Early administration of diphtheria antitoxin, combined with antibiotic therapy and full supportive care, is the most effective approach to neutralise the toxin, clear the infection and prevent dangerous complications affecting the heart and nerves.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika examines the throat, assesses breathing and overall condition, and arranges throat cultures and supportive tests.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Urgent admission and treatment planning, including antitoxin, antibiotics, isolation and airway monitoring.
- 3
Medical Management
Diphtheria antitoxin therapy, antibiotics, airway support if needed, hydration and close monitoring for complications.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Continued monitoring for heart and nerve involvement, vaccination of close contacts and ensuring full immunisation status going forward.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Diphtheria Antitoxin
Urgent antitoxin therapy neutralises the toxin produced by the bacteria and is the cornerstone of treatment.
Antibiotic Therapy
Antibiotic treatment to eliminate the bacteria from the body and reduce the risk of transmission.
Isolation
Patients are isolated to prevent spread until they are no longer infectious.
Airway Support
Oxygen and, in severe cases, advanced airway support may be needed if breathing is affected.
Vaccination of Contacts
Close contacts are evaluated and offered vaccination to prevent further spread of the infection.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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