Nontoxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae: An Emerging Pathogen in England and Wales?
Author Information
Author(s): Mark Reacher, Mary Ramsay, Joanne White, Aruni De Zoysa, Androulla Efstratiou, Gina Mann, Andrew Mackay, Robert C. George
Primary Institution: Public Health Laboratory Service, London, United Kingdom
Hypothesis
What is the public health importance of the increase in cases of nontoxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae?
Conclusion
The increase in nontoxigenic C. diphtheriae cases likely reflects better detection rather than a true rise in infections.
Supporting Evidence
- 265 isolates of nontoxigenic C. diphtheriae were confirmed from residents of England and Wales.
- 90 of the 121 ribotyped isolates in 1995 were of a single strain.
- Most isolates were from throat swabs of young adults in primary care settings.
Takeaway
Doctors found more cases of a germ called nontoxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae, but it might just be because they are looking for it more closely now.
Methodology
The study involved characterizing isolates through molecular typing and collecting clinical information via questionnaires from laboratories.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in reporting and laboratory practices may affect the observed increase in cases.
Limitations
The study relied on retrospective data collection and may not capture all cases or contexts of infection.
Participant Demographics
Patients ranged from 1 to 87 years old, with a median age of 20; most isolates were from young adults, particularly those aged 15-24.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website