Definition for diphtheria

Diphtheria (based on Greek διφθερα dipthera “pair of leather scrolls"), is an upper respiratory tract illness characterized by sore throat, low-grade fever, and an adherent membrane (a pseudo-membrane) on the tonsil(s), pharynx, and/or nose. more

Diphtheria (based on Greek διφθερα dipthera “pair of leather scrolls"), is an upper respiratory tract illness characterized by sore throat, low-grade fever, and an adherent membrane (a pseudo-membrane) on the tonsil(s), pharynx, and/or nose. A milder form of diphtheria can be limited to the skin. It is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, a facultatively anaerobic Gram-positive bacterium.The respiratory form has an incubation period of 2-5 days. The onset of disease is usually gradual. Symptoms include fatigue, fever, a mild sore throat and problems swallowing. Children infected have symptoms that include nausea, vomiting, chills, and a high fever, although some do not show symptoms until the infection has progressed further. In 10% of cases, patients experience neck swelling. These cases are associated with a higher risk of death. less