In this article, we will discuss the Clinical Features of Neonatal tetanus, Loal tetanus and Cephalic tetanus. So, let’s get started.
Clinical Features
Neonatal tetanus: It develops in children born to mothers who have been either not immunized or inadequately immunized during pregnancy. It follows infection of umbilical cord stump by unsterilized means. The onset is common during first two weeks of life. It occurs in generalized form, proves fatal if left untreated. Poor sucking, failure to thrive, grimacing and irritability followed by rigidity and spasms are its diagnostic features. Mortality is high.
Loal tetanus: It is characterized by rigidity and spasm restricted to the muscles around the wound, is thus a limited form of tetanus, hence, carries excellent prognosis.
Cephalic tetanus: It is an uncommon form and follows injury of face or head and neck region or the ear. The incubation period is short. The trismus (lock jaw) and dysfunction of one of the cranial nerve mostly the seventh nerve are it’s common manifestations. Generalized weakness may or may not develop. The mortality is high due to early and severe involvement of brainstem.