Tetanus (Lockjaw): A Clostridum Tetani Infection

Abstract

Tetanus is also known as lockjaw, Clostridium tetani are its infectious agent. A toxin is produced by that bacteria affects the nervous system and brain, which leads to muscle stiffness. Neurotoxin affects the nerves which control the movement of muscles when the spores of Clostridium tetani entered into the wound. When tetanospasmin enters into the bloodstream, it spreads into the body immediately, appearing tetanus symptoms. The person who is suffering from stiffness and muscle swamp should go for the medical checkup instantaneously. After 7 to 10 days of starting infection, the symptoms of tetanus usually appear. Doctors prescribe metronidazole or penicillin for tetanus treatment. These antibiotics stop the bacterium from producing endotoxin and multiplying that causes stiffness of muscles and muscle spasms. Tetracycline is given to allergic patients instead of penicillin and metronidazole.

Keywords: Clostridium tetani, Metronidazole, Penicillin, Tetanus, Tetanospasmin, Tetracycline.

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