Tetanus

Exam Cram

• Tetanus is caused the toxins of gram +ve bacilli, clostridium tetani

• Presentation: gardening laceration + rapid hypertonia, muscle stiffness & spasms

• Diagnosis: clinical

• Management: IV Immunoglobulin

Outline

Assessment

History

• Acute onset, any age

• Muscle weakness, stiffness or pain

• Reduced mobility

Examination

• Hypertonia

• Muscle spasms and lockjaw

• Profuse sweating, tachycardia

Investigations

• Raised CRP, otherwise normal

Diagnosis

Diagnostic criteria: clinical

Management

1. Tetanus toxin: tetanus immunoglobulin

• Metronidazole to clear infection 

• Diazepam for spasms

• Monitor requirement for NIV/ intubation

Prophylaxis: Tetanus vaccination

Resources and References

Written in 2025