​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Diphtheriae (Corynebacterium diphtheriae)

​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Diphtheriae (Corynebacterium diphtheriae)
Diphtheriae, also known as Corynebacterium diphtheriae, is a type of infectious disease and microbiology concern.

Diphtheria is a specific physical disease.
Identifying Features: Gram-positive rods that are pleomorphic.
The natural host is the human species. The respiratory droplets are the means of transmission.


Nasopharyngeal diphtheria is characterized by the presence of a pseudomembrane that is composed of necrotic cells, fibrin, and bacteria. This is a major hallmark of the disease. In order to facilitate the development of bacteria and the manufacture of toxins, the pseudomembrane acts as a platform. Toxemia can cause damage to the myocardium and the nervous system, which can lead to death. Mechanical obstruction of the airway is another potential cause of death.


The exotoxin known as diphtheria toxin is the driving force behind the disease's pathogenicity. It is an A-B toxin that ADP ribosylates translation elongation factor 2 (EF2), which ultimately leads to the termination of protein synthesis and the death of cells. The diphtheria toxin is responsible for this.

In order to treat the condition, a combination of antitoxin treatment and antibiotics like penicillin or erythromycin are administered. Immunization with an inactivated toxin, known as diphtheria toxoid, is an effective method for controlling the development of diphtheria.