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Tetanus
Tetanus, sometimes referred to as "lockjaw" results from a bacterial infection that occurs after a cut or wound becomes infected with Clostridium tetani. The physical manifestations of tetanus are secondary to a toxin produced by the bacteria at the wound site. This results in muscular rigidity and violent muscular contractions in the infected patient. The widespread use of safe and effective vaccines (DPT and dT) has resulted in approximately 60 cases per year reported in the US. The majority of these cases are in patients over 50 years of age who are inadequately immunized. Most of the cases are seen in rural southern states, but also in surprising frequency in urban IV drug abusers. Worldwide tetanus continues to be an important cause of infant mortality in developing countries. Symptoms of (generalized) tetanus include: pain and stiffness in the jaw and trunk muscles. The stiffness progresses to muscular rigidity and involuntary spasms (leading to compromised breathing). Rapid heart rate, sweating, fever, and hypertension can also be present. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics and tetanus antibody (tetanus immune globulin) . TIG serves to neutralize the circulating toxin in the body. Mortality is approximately 21% based on 1987-88 data. All puncture wounds, deep abrasions, and cuts REQUIRE tetanus immunization (dT) within 48 hours of the injury. The tetanus vaccination needs to be administered every 5 years to be up-to-date in those with tetanus-prone wounds.
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