Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Despite long-standing availability of a vaccine, tetanus continues to cause high morbidity and mortality throughout the world. In the developed world, the elderly have traditionally been most at risk due to decline in protective antibody levels, however recent cases have occurred in younger people, particularly injecting drug users. Much of the management is supportive, although treatment aimed at preventing toxin release and uptake into the central nervous system should be given. Recent studies have focussed on optimizing antitoxin effect and improving control of muscle spasms and cardiovascular instability. This paper reviews these and other current concepts regarding the pathophysiology and management of tetanus. © 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.cacc.2005.01.001

Type

Journal article

Journal

Current Anaesthesia and Critical Care

Publication Date

01/02/2005

Volume

16

Pages

50 - 57