Definition

1. Noun:
   • A serious, contagious bacterial infection: Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
   • Characterized by membrane formation: A primary symptom is the formation of a thick, grayish pseudomembrane in the throat and upper airways, which can obstruct breathing.

Usage

• As a subject: is a preventable disease through vaccination.
• As an object: Widespread immunization has nearly eradicated in many countries.
• With modifiers: Childhood was once a major cause of death.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The child was hospitalized with a confirmed case of diphtheria.
  • A primary symptom of diphtheria is a sore throat and difficulty swallowing.
  • Vaccination against diphtheria is part of the standard DTaP shot.

Advanced Usage

• Medical/Historical Context: The term is used in medical and public health discussions about infectious diseases and vaccination programs.
  • The diphtheria antitoxin was a major medical breakthrough.

Variants and Related Words

• Diphtheritic (adj): Pertaining to or affected by diphtheria.
  • Diphtheritic membranes can form in the nose or on the skin.

Synonyms

• Contagious disease: (General category) An illness spread from person to person.
• Bacterial infection: (General category) A disease caused by bacteria.

Notes

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with the medical term .

Noun

1. acute contagious infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae; marked by the formation of a false membrane in the throat and other air passages causing difficulty in breathing