Tetanus – a Reborn Diagnosis? A Case Report

Česká verze

Authors: M. Pýchová; L. Vojtilová; M. Freibergerová; R. Pařízková; M. Šnelerová; P. Husa
Authors place of work: Klinika infekčních chorob LF MU a FN Brno
Published in the journal: Cesk Slov Neurol N 2013; 76/109(1): 100-103
Category: Kazuistika

Summary

Clostridium tetani is a gram-positive anaerobic bacillus generally present in the soil as well as in the intestines of many mammals. During its growth, the bacillus produces toxin called tetanospasmin. Vaccination against tetanus had been available from 1920s and the incidence of tetanus in the developed countries has significantly declined. However, these pathogens are still a part of the environment that surrounds us. Immunisation of adults is recommended but not required. Therefore, the risk of tetanus is not negligible. A case report presents a patient without regular tetanus toxoid booster who worked at a risk garden area and who died due to generalized tetanus.

Key words:
Clostridium tetani –tetanus toxoid –⁠ vaccination –⁠ muscle spasm –⁠ autonomic dysfunction

The authors declare they have no potential conflicts of interest concerning drugs, products, or services used in the study.

The Editorial Board declares that the manuscript met the ICMJE “uniform requirements” for biomedical papers.

Accepted for review:
6. 4. 2012

Accepted for print:
22. 5. 2012

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