Summary

• Life-threatening neurological syndrome characterised by tonic muscle spasms and hyper-reflexia.
• Caused by the exotoxin of Clostridium tetani.
• Prevention includes appropriate management of tetanus-prone wounds and complete active immunisation, with passive immunisation administered when required.
• Diagnosis is based on clinical findings that include trismus, muscle rigidity, spasms, respiratory embarrassment, dysphagia, or autonomic dysfunction.
• Management of clinical tetanus includes supportive care, wound debridement, antimicrobials, passive and active immunisation, control of muscle spasms, and management of autonomic dysfunction.