top of page

Diphtheria

Etymology:
Definition:

Gr. diphthéra: “prepared hide, leather” (in reference to the tough membrane that forms in the throat as a result of this illness)

A serious infectious disease leading to inflammation of mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. An adherent, dense, grey pseudomembrane covering the tonsils and throat is classically seen in diphtheria (hence its etymology).

bottom of page