This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine. White spots in the throat can be alarming and may indicate various underlying conditions. This article explores some of the common causes of white spots in the throat, focusing on diphtheria and measles, as highlighted in recent research studies.
Diphtheria: A Common Cause of White Patches
One of the most common differential diagnoses for white or grey patches in the throat is diphtheria. Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. This bacterium primarily infects the throat and upper airways, producing an exotoxin that can affect the myocardium and kidneys1.
Clinical Presentation
Patients with diphtheria typically present with a sore throat, low fever, and swollen glands in the neck, often giving an appearance known as “bull neck.” In severe cases, the toxin can attach to the myocardium, causing myocarditis or peripheral neuropathy. The diphtheria toxin leads to the formation of a membrane of dead tissue over the throat and tonsils, which appears white, grey, or yellowish. This adherent membrane can make breathing and swallowing difficult1.
Transmission
Diphtheria spreads through direct physical contact or by inhaling aerosolized secretions from coughs or sneezes of infected individuals. This mode of transmission underscores the importance of maintaining good hygiene and vaccination to prevent the spread of this potentially severe disease1.
Measles: Koplik Spots
Another condition that can cause white spots in the throat is measles. Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, and a maculopapular rash. A distinctive feature of measles is the presence of Koplik spots.
Clinical Presentation
A case study of a 34-year-old woman who presented with fever, coryza, cough, sore throat, conjunctivitis, and a rash following a visit to the Visayas, Philippines, highlights the appearance of Koplik spots. These spots are 2 mm ulcer-like white spots on the buccal mucosa, described as “grains of salt on a red background”2. These spots are a hallmark of measles and can aid in the diagnosis of the disease.
Conclusion
White spots in the throat can be indicative of several conditions, with diphtheria and measles being notable examples. Diphtheria presents with a characteristic membrane over the throat and tonsils, while measles is marked by Koplik spots on the buccal mucosa. Understanding these clinical presentations and modes of transmission is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management of these diseases.