A study on determinants of occurrence of complications and fatality among diphtheria cases admitted to ID & BG Hospital of Kolkata.

This was a hospital-based case series study of diphtheria patients admitted to ID & BG Hospital of Kolkata from May 2004 to April 2005. A total of 107 patients were included in the study. Report of follow up of admitted patients and interview of family members were done. The study results showed that the highest number of cases (31) were among the 6-10 year age group, while the lowest was among the 16-20 year age group (12). Overall case fatality was high (12.1%). Lowest case fatality (5%) among 21 years and above age group. Case fatality was less among those patients who were admitted to the hospital within 48 hours of occurrence of clinical features. Majority of the patients (72) developed complications. Among them, only Myocarditis occurred in 51, Myocarditis with Palatal palsy in 11, only Palatal palsy in 7, while Respiratory distress occurred in 3. Most of the admitted patients were non-immunized (84). Majority of the respondents (73) have no idea regarding the mode of spread of the disease. Only one respondent had correct knowledge about the benefit of the DPT vaccine. The main reason for non-immunization was ignorance (44%). IEC for full immunization coverage and early admission with proper management are indispensable for the reduction of diphtheria morbidity and mortality.