Diseases
tetanus
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Tetanus is a serious disease of the nervous system caused by a toxin-producing bacterium. The disease causes muscle contractions, particularly of your jaw and neck muscles. Tetanus is commonly known as lockjaw.
Symptoms
- painful muscle spasms and stiff, immovable muscles (muscle rigidity) in your jaw
- tension of muscles around your lips, sometimes producing a persistent grin
- painful spasms and rigidity in your neck muscles
- difficulty swallowing
- rigid abdominal muscles
Causes
- the bacterium that causes tetanus is called clostridium tetani.
Risk factors
- cuts or wounds exposed to soil or manure
- a foreign body in a wound, such as a nail or splinter
- a history of immune-suppressing medical conditions
Diagnosis
- physical exam
- medical and vaccination history
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is tetanus?
Tetanus is a serious disease of the nervous system caused by a toxin-producing bacterium. The disease causes muscle contractions, particularly of your jaw and neck muscles. Tetanus is commonly known as lockjaw.
What are the symptoms of tetanus?
painful muscle spasms and stiff, immovable muscles (muscle rigidity) in your jaw, tension of muscles around your lips, sometimes producing a persistent grin, painful spasms and rigidity in your neck muscles, difficulty swallowing, rigid abdominal muscles
What causes tetanus?
the bacterium that causes tetanus is called clostridium tetani.
Which medicines are used for tetanus?
methocarbamol, tetanus immune globulin
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