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Complications of Diphtheria

A severe form of bronchopneumonia can occur and can be fatal. The exotoxin easily gains access to the bloodstream and is carried throughout the body, where it may cause serious damage to the heart, the nervous system (causing permanent muscle weakness) or the kidneys. These effects may be severe, and many children have died from severe heart damage within a few weeks of onset.

Secondary damage of this kind is especially likely if there has been delay in treating with antitoxin. Even today, the death rate among those who contract diphtheria in developed countries is about 10%. In underdeveloped areas it is much higher.

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