Tetanus is an acute, potentially fatal disease caused by the neurotoxin of the bacterium Clostridium tetani. While the spores are ubiquitous in the environment, the disease is entirely preventable through vaccination.

Pathology and Clinical Presentation

• Mechanism: C. tetani spores, found in soil and animal manure, enter the body through wounds. In anaerobic conditions (lack of oxygen), spores germinate and produce tetanospasmin, a potent neurotoxin.

• Neurotoxicity: The toxin disseminates via blood and lymphatics to the central nervous system, where it blocks inhibitory neurotransmitters. This results in unopposed muscle contraction and severe spasms.

• Symptoms: The incubation period averages 8 days (r ...