Generalized tetanus: a case report

Abstract

Tetanus is a rare disease caused by Clostridium tetani, causing damage to the central nervous system with the development of muscle hypertension and attacks of generalized seizures caused by the action of the pathogenic toxin. Despite the availability of safe and effective vaccines, the urgency of the problem of tetanus incidence is high because a significant part of the population is not immunized against this disease, and severe manifestations of tetanus can be fatal. This paper presents a clinical case of traumatic generalized tetanus in an 11-year-old patient. The absence of routine immunization against tetanus and emergency activepassive immunization contributed to disease development. The disease proceeded in a typical form, with the development of muscle spasms, myoclonia, trism, and convulsions. Specific tetanus serum was administered, pathogenetic therapy with anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants was performed, and the patient had clinical recovery and was discharged from the hospital.