General Medical Information

Tetanus

Frank E. Lucente
Samir Shah
Roger Kula

Tetanus is caused by a toxin produced by clostridia, usually from infection of puncture wounds or pressure ulcers. The disease is characterized by trismus, rigid abdominal muscles, dysphagia, and perspiration. External stimuli may trigger muscle spasms and even convulsions. Laryngeal spasm may occur. Tetanus can be confined to the head and neck. There usually is a history of injury, but often the trauma was trivial or not reported. Tetanus often occurs among elderly persons who have not maintained their immunizations.