Children affected with diphtheria; a retrospective study

ABSTRACT

To review the clinical features, complications and mode of death in children suffering from diphtheria in an outbreak. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: A small area of Faisalabad, [Allied Hospital Faisalabad]. PERIOD 7 months, [April to October 1997]. 21 cases of Diphtheria between the age of 8 months to 10 years [13 male and 8 female] Out of these, 18 were unvaccinated and 3 were partially vaccinated. Antitoxin was given to 15 of them. No one died of those who were partially vaccinated. The complications involved cardiovascular system which manifested in the form of tachycardia. CCF and arrhythmias. Neurological complications included paralysis or paresis of palatopharyngeal muscles, diaphragm, squint, quadriplegia and autonomic disturbances. The respiratory complications included croup with hoarseness, neck swelling, white greyish membrane over pharyngeal and tonsillar regions. Tracheostomy was done in 15 patients. One patient had oliguria/ anuria. CONCLUSIONS: [1] Reinforcement in immunization programme. [2] Updating the knowledge of general and family practitioners through seminars and lectures. [3] Motivation of general public through media. [4] Adequate provision of antitoxin at economical rates in the Local market are recommended