Corynebacterium diphtheriae is the causative agent of diphtheria in humans. It appears as small, gram-positive bacilli that form short chains or clumps. It produces a toxin that causes a local pseudomembrane and can lead to systemic effects on the heart, nerves, and other tissues. Diagnosis involves isolating the organism from throat or skin lesions and confirming its identity and toxin production through culture and biochemical tests. Treatment involves antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin to prevent complications.