Tetanus – A Rare But Real Threat. (2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moynan, David; O'Riordan, Ruth; O'Connor, Roisin; Merry, Concepta
• Is Part Of: IDCases. Volume 12(2018)
• Page Start: 16
• Page End: 17
• Publication Date: 2018
• Subjects: Tetanus -- Neurophysiology -- Vaccines -- EMG -- Dog bite; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable Diseases -- Case Reports; Communicable Diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable diseases; Periodicals; 616.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2018.02.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-2509

Abstract

Abstract: Tetanus is a potentially fatal disease of the nervous system arising from toxins produced by Clostridium tetani, an anaerobic bacterium found in soil [1 ]. Characterized by muscular rigidity, spasms and autonomic dysregulation its identification and, importantly, its prevention remain critical to the welfare of at risk patients. We present the case of a twenty two year old woman who presented to hospital with trismus and generalized muscle spasms three days following a dog bite to the right hand. Here, we discuss the presentation of generalized tetanus and the use of neurophysiology to facilitate its diagnosis.