Question

which of the following is an infection that is characterized by the production of a gray pseudomembrane over the tonsils, pharynx and larynx that can cause respiratory obstruction?
bacterial pharyngitis
epiglottitis
diphtheria
whooping cough

Explanation:

• Bacterial pharyngitis: Usually presents with sore throat, red and swollen tonsils, but not specifically with a gray pseudomembrane.
• Epiglottitis: Characterized by severe throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and a "cherry - red" epiglottis, not a pseudomembrane over tonsils, pharynx, and larynx.
• Diphttheria: Caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Produces an exotoxin that leads to the formation of a gray - white pseudomembrane over the tonsils, pharynx, and larynx which can cause respiratory obstruction.
• Whooping cough: Presents with paroxysmal coughs followed by a "whoop" sound, not with a pseudomembrane in the upper respiratory tract.

Answer:

C. Diphttheria