Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus: An Update of Evidence-Based Management of Pediatric Patients in the Emergency Department (Infectious Disease CME and Pharmacology CME) | Points & Pearls
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Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus: An Update of Evidence-Based Management of Pediatric Patients in the Emergency Department (Infectious Disease CME and Pharmacology CME)

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Points & Pearls Excerpt

  • Treatment for diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus should be started immediately, without waiting for laboratory confirmation. In addition to recognition and management, it is important to remember that each of these diseases is reportable (including cutaneous diphtheria) and, in the case of diphtheria or pertussis, requires identification and treatment of close contacts to prevent further spread.
  • For suspected respiratory diphtheria, the CDC will provide DAT with instructions for use based on the patient’s clinical condition. See the CDC website for information on DAT or call the CDC’s Emergency Operations Center at 770-488-7100.
  • Patients with suspected diphtheria should have laboratory testing including cardiac enzymes and renal function studies. A 12-lead electrocardiogram or 24-hour cardiac monitoring may reveal a plethora of abnormalities, including heart block, ischemia, arrhythmia, prolonged QT interval, ectopy, and a bundle branch block.40,62
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Publication Information
Author

Lara Zibners, MD, MMEd, MBA, FAAP, FACEP

Peer Reviewed By

Randolph Cordle, MD, FAAEM; Kathryn H. Pade, MD

Publication Date

August 1, 2025

CME Expiration Date

August 1, 2028    CME Information

CME Credits

4 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, 4 ACEP Category I Credits, 4 AAP Prescribed Credits, 4 AOA Category 2-B Credits.
Specialty CME Credits: Included as part of the 4 credits, this CME activity is eligible for 4 Infectious Disease CME credits and 1 Pharmacology CME credit, subject to your state and institutional approval.

Pub Med ID: 40679862

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