Definition 

Tetanus (commonly called lockjaw) is a disease manifested by uncontrolled muscle spasms. Tetanus is caused by the toxin (poison) produced by the bacteria, Clostridium tetani.

Description  

This disease is frequently fatal, especially to the very old or very young. Tetanus is preventable by immunization or through administration of tetanus immune globulin. It occurs predominantly in developing countries among newborn infants, children, and young adults. It is still encountered in the U.S., especially in unimmunized or inadequately immunized adults over 50 years of age. The most frequent form of tetanus is a generalized type in which large quantities of poison from a wound are released into the blood stream, producing a quick and severe onset of the disease. Tetanus disease has a stimulating effect on certain muscle groups. Most of the time the muscles of the jaw, face, and neck are affected first, followed by an effect on progressively more distant muscles such as the arms and legs.

Causes

The tetanus bacteria depends upon the introduction of its spores into damaged tissue along with foreign bodies and/or other bacteria to provide the necessary conditions favorable to its growth. Tetanus is not directly transmitted from person to person. Instead, tetanus spores may be introduced into the body through a puncture wound contaminated with soil, street dust, animal feces; injected contaminated street drugs; lacerations; burns; or even trivial or unnoticed wounds.

Symptoms

Early symptoms: lockjaw, stiffness in the neck and abdomen, and difficulty swallowing

Later symptoms: severe muscle spasms, generalized tonic seizure-like activity, severe autonomic nervous system disorders

Complications

Death in about 10-20% of cases, higher among older people

Transmission

Enters the body through a break in the skin

Vaccine

Tetanus toxoid (contained in Tdap, DTP, DT, DTaP, and Td vaccines) can prevent this disease.