Tetanus and its continuing menace in the developing world: Critical care management

Abstract

Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is an infection characterized by muscle spasms. In the most common type, the spasms begin in the jaw and then progress to the rest of the body. These spasms usually last a few minutes each time and occur frequently for three to four weeks. Tetanus is a disease caused by the toxin produced by the ubiquitous bacterium, Clostridium tetani. C tetani infection can be acquired through surgery, intravenous drug abuse, the neonate's umbilicus, bites, burns, body piercing, puncture wounds, and ear infections. This organism can enter through any break in the integrity of the body. We hereby describe the successful management, including critical care challenges of a case of Tetanus in a young male patient following a minor toe injury. Timely airway management followed by early tracheostomy with effective control of muscle spasms and other supportive therapy is highlighted. Tetanus continues to be a menacing infectious disease with high fatality in the developing world.