Diphtheritic stomatitis

Diphtheritic Stomatitis

Diphtheritic stomatitis is a rare form of stomatitis characterized by the presence of a diphtheria infection in the oral cavity. This condition is marked by the formation of a pseudomembrane on the mucous membranes of the mouth, similar to the pseudomembrane seen in diphtheria of the pharynx.

Etiology

Diphtheritic stomatitis is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which is the same pathogen responsible for diphtheria. The infection typically occurs in individuals who are not immunized against diphtheria or in those with compromised immune systems.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with diphtheritic stomatitis may present with:

• Fever
• Malaise
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• The presence of a grayish-white pseudomembrane on the oral mucosa

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of diphtheritic stomatitis is primarily clinical, supported by:

• Culture of the organism from the pseudomembrane
• PCR testing for Corynebacterium diphtheriae

Treatment

The treatment of diphtheritic stomatitis involves:

• Administration of diphtheria antitoxin to neutralize the toxin
• Antibiotic therapy with penicillin or erythromycin to eradicate the bacteria
• Supportive care, including hydration and pain management

Prevention

Prevention of diphtheritic stomatitis is achieved through:

• Vaccination with the diphtheria toxoid vaccine
• Maintaining good oral hygiene

Complications

Potential complications of diphtheritic stomatitis include:

• Airway obstruction due to the pseudomembrane
• Systemic spread of the toxin leading to myocarditis or neuropathy

See Also

• Diphtheria
• Stomatitis
• Oral health

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Diphtheria
• World Health Organization - Diphtheria