Pertussis pathophysiology

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [2]

Pertussis Microchapters
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Overview

Infection occurs through direct contact with the aerosolized mucus of infected persons, usually during coughing and sneezing. The bacterium adheres to the ciliated epithelium of the nasopharynx, and proliferates in the lower respiratory system. In a small number of cases, the bacteria may move further to the pulmonary alveoli, causing Bordatella pneumonia. The bacteria does not however cross the respiratory epithelium to the bloodstream, and therefore sepsis is not seen.

Pathophysiology

Transmission

Humans are the only reservoir for Bordatella pertussis, and the incubation period varies from 1 to 3 weeks, and is usually about 10 days. Although asymptomatic carriers have been reported, they have a low probability of transmitting the disease as they are not actively coughing. Pertussis is highly contagious, and highest rates of transmission occurs with exposure to the infected individual at 5 feet or less.