Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that affects the nose and throat. The diagnosis of diphtheria is usually based on a physical examination, visual examination of the throat, and a laboratory test of a throat swab or tissue sample. The doctor may suspect diphtheria if they see a gray coating on theRead more
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that affects the nose and throat. The diagnosis of diphtheria is usually based on a physical examination, visual examination of the throat, and a laboratory test of a throat swab or tissue sample. The doctor may suspect diphtheria if they see a gray coating on the throat or tonsils. Growth of C. diphtheriae in a lab culture of material from the throat membrane confirms the diagnosis. If a doctor suspects diphtheria, treatment begins immediately, even before the results of bacterial tests are available.
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The symptoms of diphtheria can vary depending on the severity of the infection. The most common symptom is a thick gray coating on the throat and tonsils. Other symptoms may include: - Swollen neck lymph nodes (cervical lymphadenopathy) - Difficulty swallowing - Fever - Sore throat - Cough - WheezinRead more
The symptoms of diphtheria can vary depending on the severity of the infection. The most common symptom is a thick gray coating on the throat and tonsils. Other symptoms may include:
– Swollen neck lymph nodes (cervical lymphadenopathy)
– Difficulty swallowing
– Fever
– Sore throat
– Cough
– Wheezing
– Feeling of discomfort or illness
In some cases, diphtheria may cause respiratory failure.
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