How Many Diphtheria Vaccines are Currently Licensed in the US?

Discussion Diphtheria is caused by the toxin produced by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Two other Corynebacterium species (C. ulcerans and C. pseudotuberculosis) may produce diphtheria toxin; both species are zoonotic. Diphtheria is spread by respiratory droplets and also contact with open ulcers or sores. Incubation period is 1-10 days with a usual period of 2-5 days. The bacteria attacks the respiratory tract mucosa causing cellular death which in turn causes a “pseudomembrane” of tissue to build up causing respiratory distress and possible death due to airway obstruction (5-10% for general population but up to 20% for those 40 years). Other problems include fever, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, loss of appetite, neck swelling due to lymphadenopathy, fatigue and weakness. Myocarditis, peripheral neuropathy and kidney damage can occur. Cutaneous diphtheria also appears as skin sores/ulcers and rash. Diagnosis is suspected clinically with throat (under the membrane is best) or skin culture confirmation. Specific testing for toxin is by an immunodiffusion assay called the Elek test which is only performed by the CDC in the U.S.. Diphtheria is a reportable disease in the U.S.. Patients are treated with diphtheria anti-toxin to stop the anti-toxin effects and antibiotics (penicillin or erythromycin are recommended) to treat the bacteria. Immunization with appropriate vaccines and prophylactic antibiotics are also recommended for close contacts. Differential diagno...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news