[The return of pertussis]

Abstract

Pertussis (whooping cough) is a contagious respiratory tract bacterial infection due to Bordetella pertussis who makes global comeback despite routine vaccination. Bordetella pertussis produces a series of virulence factors that are involved in one of several steps of the pathogenesis of whooping cough (adhesins, toxins). Unusual presentations are now most common. Clinical diagnosis of whooping cough is often difficult, and microbiologic evaluation is helpful. Treatment is based on antibiotherapy and sometimes intensive care management. Complications are most common in children younger than 6 months (death, malignant pertussis, respiratory and neurological complications). Pertussis can be controlled by treatment of exposed people and by vaccination.