Abstract
Life-threatening neurological syndrome characterised by tonic muscle spasms and hyperreflexia.
Caused by the exotoxin of Clostridium tetani .
Prevention includes appropriate management of tetanus-prone wounds and complete active immunisation, with passive immunisation administered when required.
Diagnosis is based on clinical findings that include trismus, muscle rigidity, spasms, respiratory embarrassment, dysphagia, or autonomic dysfunction.
Management of clinical tetanus includes supportive care, wound debridement, antimicrobials, passive and active immunisation, control of muscle spasms, and management of autonomic dysfunction.
Definition
Tetanus is a life-threatening neurological syndrome characterised by tonic muscle spasms and hyperreflexia, caused by the exotoxin of Clostridium tetani , a gram-positive spore-forming obligate anaerobe.
| Original language | English |
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| Publisher | BMJ Publishing Group |
| Publication status | Published - 8 May 2018 |
Publication series
| Name | BMJ Best Practice |
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