Whooping Cough Flashcards
1
Q
Whooping Cough Microbiology
A
-Gram negative coccobacillus
2
Q
Whooping Cough Presentation
A
- 6-8 weeks duration
- First stage is catarrhal, mild respiratory infection, malaise, conjunctivitis, nasal discharge, sore throat, dry cough
- As catarrhal symptoms wane, paroxysmal stage begins, dry, hacking cough begins, characteristic whoop, chokes, gasps and flails, frequently post-cough vomiting
- In paroxysmal stage can cause paroxysmal cyanosis
- Cough is persistent and ferocious
3
Q
Whooping Cough Infective School Rules
A
- Stay off school for 21 days from onset of symptoms
- Or 48 hours after taking antibiotics
4
Q
Whooping Cough Differentials
A
- Adenoviral infection
- Mycoplasma pneumonia
- Chlamydophila pneumoniae
5
Q
Whooping Cough Investigations
A
- Culture nasopharynx, how?
- PCR is an adjunct
6
Q
Whooping Cough Management
A
- Admit if <6 months and acutely unwell or any age if respiratory difficulties
- Antibiotics do not alter course but macrolides can reduce infectivity
- Can only be started within three weeks
- Clarithromycin
- Erythromycin for pregnant women
- Management otherwise supportive
- Offer prophylaxis to those in close contact
7
Q
Whooping Cough Complications
A
-Many severe complications
