Tetanus

Overview

Tetanus is a result of infection with Clostridium tetani, commonly found in soil.Infection enters the body through wounds, often trivial. There's no cure for tetanus. Treatment is focused on managing complications until the consequences of the tetanus toxin resolve.

Signs and Symptoms

Spasms and stiffness in jaw muscles (lockjaw), Stiffness of neck, face and trunk muscles, Difficulty swallowing, Stiffness of abdominal muscles, Painful body spasms lasting for several minutes, Fever, Sweating, Rapid heart rate

Common Causes

Anaerobic, gram-positive, spore-forming Clostridium Tetani. The spores or bacteria enter the body through abrasions, wounds, or (in the case of neonates) the umbilical stump. Once in a suitable environment, the organisms grow, multiply, and release tetanus toxinhat enters the nervous system.

Risk Factors

Age more than 60 years, Failure to get vaccinated, open injury including skin abrasions and open fracture, foreign body entry such as a nail or splinter, Surgical wounds, Animal or insect bites, Infected umbilical stumps in newborns, Illegal abortions, Ear piercings, Circumcision

Investigation Techniques

History and physical examination

Treatment and Prevention

Tetanus can be prevented by tetanus toxoid vaccination Neutralise absorbed toxin: human tetanus antitoxin Prevent further toxin production by debridement of wound, antibiotics-benxypenicillin, Care is given in quiet room to avoid unnecessary stimuli, IV diazepam to control muscle spasm, Secure airway and ensure heart instability Maintain hydration and nutrition, Treat secondary infections