What Is Microbiology - Diphtheria

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Diphtheria is caused by corynebacterium diphtheriae. 

Diphtheria may lead to neurological disturbance and myocardium disturbance due to the effects of toxin. The toxin is originated from the pseudomembrane consists of fibrin, bacteria and necrotic cells. Besides that pseudomembrane will acts as a site for the growth of bacteria and production of toxin. 

Besides that diphtheria may also lead to obstruction of the airway which carry high risk of mortality. 

Corynebacterium diphtheriae will produce diphtheria toxin which is known as exotoxin. The toxin is an A-B toxin which effect the elongation factor 2. As a result there will be disruption of the protein synthesis and necrosis of the cell. 

The mode of transmission of corynebacterium diphtheriae is respiratory droplets. The treatment may include penicillin or erythromycin administration. Immunization against the toxin is also considered.