[Diphtheria. An illness, which many physicians no longer see in personal experience].
Diphtheria is one of those diseases that the rigorous application of vaccination has rendered very rare in Western countries. However, as a result of being re-introduced from Eastern Europe, it may re-establish itself in the West. The incubation period is two to five days, and in the unprotected, infection may take place via a carrier who himself is not ill. The most feared form is the laryngeal form (croup) and the exotoxin-induced complications: myocarditis with arrhythmias and paresis affecting the muscles of the palate, throat and respiratory system. Once it is clinically suspected, antibiotic treatment and antitoxin therapy should be initiated without delay.
Butenandt
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O
Dr. von Haunersches Kinderspital, Universität München.
Weiss
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M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004165:Diphtheria / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D015721:Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis Vaccine / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D007115:Immunization Schedule; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn
D015721:Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis Vaccine
Die Diphtherie. Ein Krankheitsbild, das viele Arzte nicht mehr aus eigener Anschauung kennen.