Tetanus in a Non-Immunized Adult: Early Diagnosis and Successful Management - A Case Report

Introduction Tetanus is an acute infectious disease of the nervous system caused by Clostridium tetani (C. tetani) characterized by muscle spasms that are caused by the toxin-producing spores of the anaerobic bacteria. These spores are ubiquitous in soil, ash, the intestinal tract of animals and humans, and on the surface of skin and rusty tools like nails, needles, and barbed wire, leading it to be a high-mortality disease. Clinical features of this disease include muscle spasms that begin in the jaw (lockjaw), painful muscle spasms, seizures, headache and fever. Case report: This report describes a case of 19-year-old male with history of thorn prick presented to a tertiary care hospital in central India. Conclusion: Ensuring timely and complete immunization is of paramount importance in preventing the occurrence of adult tetanus as it not only provides robust and long-lasting protection against Clostridium tetani but also reduces morbidity and mortality. It also reflects the gross lack of awareness of post-exposure prophylaxis against this deadly infection.