Diphtheria

Table of Contents

Other names

Corynebacterium diphtheriae infection
Respiratory Diphtheria
Cutaneous Diphtheria
Throat Diphtheria

Synopsis

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, known for producing a potent toxin that can cause severe inflammation and damage to the respiratory tract, skin, heart, and nerves. It most often affects the throat and upper airways, forming a thick, gray membrane that can block breathing and lead to life-threatening complications.

Though once a major cause of illness and death worldwide, diphtheria has become rare in developed countries due to routine childhood vaccination (DTaP or Tdap). However, outbreaks still occur in areas with low vaccination coverage or poor hygiene.

Types of Diphtheria:

  • Respiratory Diphtheria (most common): Affects the throat and tonsils; may lead to airway obstruction.

  • Cutaneous Diphtheria: Causes skin ulcers or sores, more common in tropical or poor sanitary conditions.

  • Toxic Diphtheria: Occurs when the diphtheria toxin spreads systemically, affecting the heart, nerves, or kidneys.

Common Causes and Transmission:

  • Caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae

  • Spread through respiratory droplets (coughing, sneezing) or contact with open sores

  • Poor hygiene, crowding, and unvaccinated individuals are at higher risk

  • Incubation period: 2–5 days after exposure

Severity Factors:

  • Highly dangerous if untreated — up to 50% mortality in severe cases without care

  • Risk of asphyxiation, myocarditis, neuritis, and kidney failure

  • Children under 5 and adults over 60 are at highest risk

  • Mortality can be prevented with prompt antitoxin and antibiotics

When to See a Doctor (Immediately):

  • Sore throat with thick, gray coating in the mouth or throat

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing

  • Swollen neck ("bull neck" appearance)

  • Fever and general weakness

  • Exposure to diphtheria or outbreak area

  • Open sores that do not heal (if cutaneous form suspected)

Natural Remedies

Adequate hydration and nutrient-dense meals to rebuild strength

Warm herbal teas (e.g., ginger, green tea) to soothe throat inflammation

Bed rest and reduced physical activity during cardiac recovery

Immune-boosting foods and supplements to support overall healing