Diphtheria is not commonly seen these days in children coming from higher socio-economic
groups and among those who have received the injections of DPT (triple antigen)
vaccine at regular intervals.
SYMPTOMS: Diphtheria mostly affects the throat, larynx (the voice box) and the nasal
passage.
Following a day or two of low-grade fever, the child complains of a sore throat. Examination of
the throat
reveals a dirty white or greyish membrane extending from the
tonsils and throat to the palate. Glands below the jaw may swell
up. Swelling of the neck may also occur. The child has
difficulty in swallowing. If the larynx is also involved, hoarseness
of voice and noisy breathing is noticed.
TREATMENT: Once the diagnosis is suspected, your doctor will get a throat swab examined by a pathologist
and accordingly begin treatment.
