Generalized tetanus in a partially immunized child

Sánchez C.S.; Beraún S.L.; Bustamante R.P.; Uturunco W.L. · Revista Chilena de Infectologia (2022) · DOI: 10.4067/s0716-10182022000400467

Resumen

Tetanus continues to be a public health problem, which affects all age groups. Mortality increases when immunization programs have low coverage and there is a lack of resources for early treatment. This disease is caused by the toxin of Clostridium tetani (tetanospasmin) which enters the body via wounds contaminated by foreign bodies. The most common symptoms of tetanus are of the generalized type and are characterized by tonic contraction of skeletal muscles, intense, painful muscle spasms, and autonomic hyperactivity. The diagnosis is clinical and the previous vaccination history becomes important. We report the case of generalized tetanus in a child with incomplete immunizations. Highlight the importance of vaccination and early diagnosis and treatment.