Lecture on Tetanus and Historical Context

Historical Case

• 5th Century: Greek physician Hippocrates encounters an early recorded case of tetanus.
  • Patient: Ill shipmaster with symptoms of locked jaw and muscle spasms.
  • Outcome: Patient succumbed to the disease.

Understanding Tetanus

• Causative Agent: Clostridium tetani bacterium.
• Transmission: Not person-to-person, but through cuts and abrasions.
  • Commonly associated with rusty nails and scrap metal.
  • Bacteria often reside in soil, manure, and dead leaves.

Pathophysiology

• Invasion: Spores enter body through wounds.
• Toxin Release: Germination releases tetanus toxin affecting nerve endings.
• Symptoms:
  • Within 7-10 days: General aches, swallowing difficulties, lockjaw.
  • Progression: Head and neck symptoms, followed by back arching.
  • Severe Cases: Spasms in windpipe and chest leading to suffocation.

Treatment

• Immediate Response:
  • Clean wound and administer antibiotics.
  • Inject antitoxin to neutralize circulating toxin.
• Supportive Care:
  • Muscle relaxants and ventilator support may be needed.

Prevention

• Vaccination:
  • Developed in the early 1920s.
  • Recommended series of shots and boosters from 2 months to 12 years old.

Global Health Context

• Mortality: Over 20,000 infants die yearly due to tetanus.
  • Mainly in low- and middle-income countries with limited vaccine access.
• Maternal Vaccination: Crucial during pregnancy to protect newborns.

Conclusion

• Tetanus remains a significant health threat.
• Vaccination and prompt treatment of wounds are essential preventative measures.
• Encourages further learning on vaccines and historical impacts of diseases.