Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌdɪfˈθɪə.rɪə/

Definitions

• Noun: A bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and upper respiratory system, characterized by a sore throat, fever, and a thick coating in the throat or nose.
• Noun: A disease caused by the bacterium *Corynebacterium diphtheriae*, which produces toxins that damage tissues and can lead to complications such as heart failure, paralysis, or death if untreated.

Usage Examples

• The child was diagnosed with diphtheria after showing signs of severe throat pain and difficulty breathing.
• Vaccination against diphtheria has significantly reduced the number of cases worldwide.
• Antibiotics and an antitoxin are used to treat diphtheria infections effectively.

Etymology

The word "diphtheria" originates from the Greek word "diphthera," meaning "leather" or "skin," referring to the leathery membrane that forms in the throat during the infection.

Synonyms

• None (specific medical term)

Antonyms

• Health
• Wellness

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Regional variations in the pronunciation of "diphtheria" are generally minimal but may vary slightly in some dialects, particularly in non-English languages.

Historical Usage

Diphtheria was a major cause of death in children until vaccines were developed in the early 20th century. Today, thanks to widespread vaccination, it is rare in developed countries.

Cultural Nuances

The development of the diphtheria vaccine marked a significant milestone in public health, shaping modern vaccination campaigns and leading to the control of many infectious diseases.

More Information

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose. The disease is characterized by the formation of a thick pseudomembrane in the throat, which can obstruct the airways and lead to breathing difficulties. Early symptoms include sore throat, fever, and swollen glands. If untreated, diphtheria can cause serious complications such as myocarditis, paralysis, or even death. However, with the advent of the diphtheria vaccine, cases of the disease have significantly decreased worldwide. The vaccine is usually administered as part of a combination vaccine (DTP) for children.