Chapter 22, Problem 3SA

Summary Introduction

To answer:

The microorganisms that cause diphtheria and pneumonia are frequently found in the upper pharynx of healthy individuals. The reason why do relatively few individuals contract these two illnesses.

Introduction:

Diphtheria and pneumonia are the two diseases that commonly occur in the children’s lower respiratory system. Diphtheria is a caused by the Corynebacterium diphtheriae that results in symptoms, like sore throat, and oozing fluid that obstructs the airways by hardening the pseudomembrane. Pneumonia is caused by the virus, bacteria, and fungus. This pneumonia causes serious symptoms in the children, but it can occur in all cases. It causes inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs and the sacs are filled with the pus, which make breathing difficult.