Diphtheria

Treatment:

Diphtheria antitoxin is given as an intramuscular or intravenous injection as soon as the diagnosis is suspected. The infection is then treated with antibiotics such as penicillin or erythromycin.

People with diphtheria require hospitalization for supportive treatment and during the administration of antitoxin. The diphtheritic membrane may need removal if airway obstruction is present. Intravenous fluids, oxygen, bed rest and cardiac monitoring are usually indicated. Complete bedrest for 2 to 3 weeks may be recommended if complications develop, especially myocarditis.

Immunization or booster of all contacts of the infected person, including health care personnel, is indicated. Protective immunity is not present longer than 10 years after the last vaccination.

Expectations (prognosis):

The death rate is 10%. Recovery from the illness is slow; therefore activities must be resumed slowly.

Complications:

The diphtheria toxin can damage the heart, nervous system, kidneys, or other organs resulting in disorders such as:

• myocarditis (can occur in 10 to 14 days)
• heart failure
• neurologic palsies or peripheral neuritis causing uncoordinated movements and other symptoms (develops in 3 to 7 weeks)
• paralysis
• nephritis

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if exposure to diphtheria has occurred (particularly in non-immunized individuals). Remember that diphtheria is a rare disease. Diphtheria is also a reportable disease and any cases of diphtheria are often publicized in the news paper or on television. This information can make you aware that diphtheria is present in your area.