Cutaneous diphtheria infection
Cutaneous Diphtheria Infection
Cutaneous diphtheria (/kjuːˈteɪniəs dɪfˈθɪəriə/; from the Greek words kutis, meaning "skin", and diphthera, meaning "leather") is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the skin. It is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
Overview
Cutaneous diphtheria is a form of diphtheria, a serious and potentially life-threatening infection. Unlike the more common respiratory diphtheria, cutaneous diphtheria affects the skin, resulting in sores and ulcers. It is less common in developed countries due to widespread vaccination, but remains a significant health concern in many parts of the world.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of cutaneous diphtheria is the presence of skin lesions, which may initially appear as small red bumps or blisters. These can progress to larger ulcers with a grayish-white membrane. Other symptoms can include pain, redness, and swelling around the affected area.
Causes
Cutaneous diphtheria is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which produces a toxin that can damage tissues. The bacteria are spread through direct contact with the wounds or sores of an infected person, or through contaminated objects.
Treatment
Treatment for cutaneous diphtheria typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria, and antitoxin to neutralize the toxin produced by the bacteria. In severe cases, surgical debridement of the affected skin may be necessary.
Prevention
Prevention of cutaneous diphtheria is primarily through vaccination with the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) vaccine. Good personal hygiene and wound care can also help prevent the spread of the bacteria.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cutaneous diphtheria infection
- Wikipedia's article - Cutaneous diphtheria infection
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