How is Bubonic plague diagnosed?

The diagnosis of bubonic plague involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and a careful assessment of the patient's medical history. Given the severity and contagious nature of this disease, prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and containment.

When a patient presents with symptoms that could potentially indicate bubonic plague, such as sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes (buboes), a healthcare professional will conduct a thorough physical examination. The presence of tender, enlarged, and painful lymph nodes is a key characteristic of bubonic plague.

Following the initial evaluation, laboratory tests are employed to confirm the diagnosis. These tests include:

• Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) may reveal elevated levels of white blood cells, indicating an active infection. Additionally, a blood culture can be performed to identify the specific bacteria responsible for the plague.


• Yersinia pestis detection: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests can be used to detect the genetic material of Yersinia pestis, the bacterium that causes bubonic plague, in blood, lymph node, or sputum samples.


• Serology: Serological tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), can detect antibodies produced by the body in response to Yersinia pestis infection. These tests are useful for confirming a recent or past infection.

It is important to note that prompt treatment should not be delayed while waiting for laboratory results, as the clinical presentation and epidemiological context are often sufficient to initiate appropriate therapy.

If bubonic plague is suspected, healthcare professionals must report the case to local health authorities immediately. This enables the implementation of necessary public health measures to prevent further spread of the disease.