Tetanus (to exclude now)

SmartAnalysis by DigiNepal SI

Tetanus is a serious illness caused by Clostridium bacteria. The bacteria live in soil, saliva, dust, and manure. The bacteria can enter the body through a deep cut, like those you might get from stepping on a nail, or through a burn. generated by SI from cited sources · general information, not a diagnosis · consult a health professional

Sources: SI, NLM MedlinePlus · Reference · https://medlineplus.gov/tetanus.html; https://www.mayoclinic.org/search/search-results?q=Tetanus; Guideline: WHO 2017 tetanus position paper

What it is

Tetanus is a serious illness caused by Clostridium bacteria. The bacteria live in soil, saliva, dust, and manure. The bacteria can enter the body through a deep cut, like those you might get from stepping on a nail, or through a burn.

Sources: SI, NLM MedlinePlus · Reference · MedlinePlus (US NLM) · Mayo Clinic

Symptoms

Findings that point to it: trismus, hypersecretion.

Sources: SI, NLM MedlinePlus · Reference · MedlinePlus (US NLM) · Mayo Clinic

When to seek care

EMERGENCY, go now: this is an emergency condition; go to the nearest emergency department or call 102.

Sources: SI, NLM MedlinePlus · Reference · MedlinePlus (US NLM) · Mayo Clinic

Diagnosis

Tests used to confirm: admit; tetanus immunoglobulin; wound care; airway.

Sources: SI, NLM MedlinePlus · Reference · MedlinePlus (US NLM) · Mayo Clinic

Care & treatment

Treatment is decided by a clinician after confirming the diagnosis. No dosing information is given here.

Sources: SI, NLM MedlinePlus · Reference · MedlinePlus (US NLM) · Mayo Clinic

Clinical guideline

WHO 2017 tetanus position paper

Sources: SI, NLM MedlinePlus · Reference · MedlinePlus (US NLM) · Mayo Clinic

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Learn more / References

• MedlinePlus (US NLM)
• Mayo Clinic search