Whooping Cough

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Upper respiratory tract infection caused by BORDATELLA PERTUSSIS (-ve gram)
There is a vaccine but becomes less effective a few years each dose

Question 2

Presentation

Answer 2

Produce loud inspiratory whoop when coughing ends
BEGINS WITH:
mild coryzal symptoms,
low grade fever
mild dry cough
1 WEEK LATER
- more severe coughing
- fainting,
- vomit,
- develop pneumothorax
- sudden recurring coughs with cough free periods in between = PAROXYSMAL COUGH
- coughing fits + keep building until patient out of breath
* below 6 moths = apnoea, cyanosis *

Question 3

Diagnosis

Answer 3

GOLD STANDARD = Nasopharyngeal or nasal swab with PCR testing or bacterial culture = 2-3 weeks of onset of symptoms

+ 2 weeks of symptoms = patients can be tested for anti-pertussis toxin IgG
- oral fluid of children 5-16
- blood in +17

Question 4

Treatment

Answer 4

Macrolides
- Azithromycin
- Erythromycin
- Clarythromycin (within first 21 days)
Avoid close contact with vulnerable people

Question 5

Complications

Answer 5

BRONCHIECTASIS