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Updated: Mar 25, 2026
Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Infection and Detection
Published on: February 7, 2019
A case of pharyngeal diphtheria in Germany, June 2015
A Berger1,2, D M Meinel2, A Schaffer3
1National Consiliary Laboratory for Diphtheria, 85764, Oberschleißheim, Germany.
Background:
In June 2015, a 45-year-old man suffering from acute necrotic tonsillitis and throat phlegmon was hospitalized in Nuremberg, Germany. After emergency surgery the patient was initially treated with antibiotics.
Results:
A throat swab grew a toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae biovar mitis strain. The patient's vaccination status was not documented and the patient was tested serologically for anti-diphtheria antibodies showing no protective immunity. Extensive control investigations were performed by the local health department showing no likely source of his infection.
Conclusion:
No secondary cases were found and the patient completely recovered.
Insights
A case of diphtheria in an unvaccinated adult in Germany highlights the need for continued vigilance. Despite severe symptoms, the patient recovered fully with no secondary infections reported.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- A 45-year-old man presented with acute necrotic tonsillitis and throat phlegmon.
- Initial treatment involved antibiotics and emergency surgery.
Observation:
- A throat swab identified a toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae biovar mitis.
- The patient lacked documented vaccination and showed no protective antibody levels.
- Contact tracing by health authorities found no clear source of infection.
Findings:
- The patient experienced a severe case of diphtheria.
- No secondary cases of diphtheria were identified in contacts.
- The patient made a complete recovery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the risk of diphtheria in unvaccinated or under-vaccinated adult populations.
- It emphasizes the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent outbreaks.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patient recovery and public health containment.
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