A Rare Case of Localized Tetanus

JOURNAL TITLE: Indian Journal of Critical Care Medicine

Author
1. Deepak S Sharma
2. Mit Shah
ISSN
0972-5229
DOI
10.4103/ijccm.IJCCM_182_18
Volume
22
Issue
9
Publishing Year
2018
Pages
2
Author Affiliations
    1. Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Shree Krishna Hospital, Karamsad, Anand, Gujarat, India
    1. Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Shree Krishna Hospital, Karamsad, Anand, Gujarat, India
  • Article keywords
    Localized tetanus, tetanus, tetanus immunoglobulin

    Abstract

    Tetanus is a severe and potentially fatal infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. Presentations of tetanus include generalized tetanus, neonatal tetanus, cephalic tetanus, and localized tetanus, the latter two being much rarer. We present case of a 55-year-old male farmer, presented with an injury to the left toe. A surgical wound exploration and washout with administration of human tetanus immunoglobulin and tetanus toxoid were given as treatment with antibiotic support. This case report points out the importance of the early recognition of a rare form of this fatal infectious disease, which may present with prodromal symptoms before the generalized form shows its clinical effects. Successful management includes prompt diagnosis, neutralization of circulating toxin and elimination of C. tetani infection, control of spasms, maintenance of the airway, and management of respiratory failure and autonomic dysfunction.

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