Overview
Clinical Frame
Tetanus is a preventable neurologic emergency caused by a bacterial neurotoxin rather than by invasive infection throughout the body.
Tetanus is a preventable neurologic emergency caused by a bacterial neurotoxin rather than by invasive infection throughout the body. The bedside pattern is progressive trismus and rigidity followed by painful, stimulus-triggered spasms; dysphagia, respiratory compromise, or autonomic instability signals increasing danger. The diagnosis is clinical, so treatment and airway planning must not wait for a wound culture.