A report of two pediatric tetanus cases

Turk J Pediatr. 2011 Jul-Aug;53(4):437-40.

Abstract

Tetanus is still a difficult-to-treat disease with high morbidity and mortality. Although it most commonly occurs in non-immunized children, it can also be seen in partially immunized or immunized children. We report herein two pediatric cases of generalized tetanus. Case 1 presented with signs of acute abdomen, while Case 2 presented with the typical clinical findings of tetanus. In this report, we highlight the importance of obtaining a history of the vaccination status of pediatric patients as an essential part of the evaluation. Furthermore, the differential diagnosis of non-immunized children with abdominal rigidity should include generalized tetanus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Tetanus / diagnosis*
  • Tetanus / drug therapy
  • Tetanus Antitoxin / therapeutic use
  • Turkey

Substances

  • Tetanus Antitoxin