Classification: ICD-9 033.0, 033.9; ICD-10 A37.0, A37.9
Syndromes and synonyms: Whooping cough
Agent : Bordetella pertussis a Gram-negative, fastidious bacterium (Bordetella parapertussis causes a milder illness called parapertussis).
Reservoir: Humans.
Transmission: Direct person-to-person transmission via respiratory droplets.
Incubation period: Average 7–10 days (range 5–21 days).
Clinical findings: Classical pertussis has a prodromal stage of 1–2 weeks with coryza and a mild, persistent cough that progresses to paroxysms of violent coughing interspersed with an inspiratory whoop. Vomiting may follow coughing bouts. This stage can last 4–6 weeks. Adolescents and adults often do not have paroxysms and whooping, presenting more commonly with a prolonged cough. Asymptomatic infection may also occur. Infants under 6 months may present with apnea, and deaths occur mostly in this age group. Serious complications include pneumonia, seizures, cerebral hypoxia, and encephalopathy.
Diagnostic tests:
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