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Diphtheria

An infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae featuring formation of a gray pseudomembrane in the throat and toxic complications.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Diphtheria?

Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by toxin-producing strains of the aerobic Gram-positive rod-shaped bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Transmission occurs via respiratory droplets and direct contact.

Clinically, the respiratory form (tonsillar, pharyngeal, laryngeal diphtheria) is most common; sore throat, fever, and the characteristic gray-white pseudomembrane formation are key findings. The membrane can obstruct the airway and cause death.

Diphtheria toxin can spread to distant organs such as the heart, nervous system, and kidneys, leading to myocarditis, peripheral neuritis, and renal failure. Effective protection is provided by the DTaP vaccine; outbreaks may occur in regions with declining vaccination rates.

Symptoms

Sore throat and difficulty swallowing
Gray-white pseudomembrane on tonsils and pharynx
Low to moderate fever
Cervical lymphadenopathy ('bull neck' appearance)
Weakness and loss of appetite
Signs of myocarditis (advanced stage)
Peripheral neuritis, ptosis, swallowing paralysis

Risk Factors

Unvaccinated or non-boostered individuals
Crowded living conditions
Travel to endemic regions
Healthcare workers
Alcohol dependence and inadequate healthcare
Immunosuppression
Migrant and refugee populations

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Gray-white membrane in the throat and difficulty swallowing
  • Breathing difficulty and 'bull neck' appearance
  • Fever, weakness, and prominent neck swelling
  • Diphtheria contact or return from an endemic region
  • Severe throat infection in unvaccinated children

Treatment Methods

01
Diphtheria antitoxin (DAT) — the most important treatment
02
Penicillin G or erythromycin antibiotics
03
Airway management (intubation/tracheostomy when needed)
04
Intensive monitoring (for myocarditis and neuritis)
05
Primary prevention with DTaP and Tdap vaccines
06
Contact tracing and prophylaxis

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.