Abstract

Daniel Sams*

Diphtheria is an infection generate by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Signs and symptoms may more from mild to severe. They usually start two to six days after exposure.m Symptoms often come on fairly gradually, starting with a sore throat and fever. In severe cases, a grey or white patch expand in the throat. This can block the airway and create a barking cough as in croup. The neck may swell in part due to enlarged lymph nodes. A form of diphtheria which involves the skin, eyes or genitals also exists. Complications may include myocarditis, inflammation of nerves and kidney problems, and bleeding problems due to low levels of platelets. Myocarditis may result in an abnormal heart rate and inflammation of the nerves may result in paralysis.