Tężec - ostra neuroinfekcja ludzi i zwierząt

This article aims at the reviewing current measures in prophylaxis and treatment of tetanus, well known neuroinfection, frequently met in farm animals and also in companion animals. Tetanus is a common neurologic disease, occurring as well in humans and characterized by spastic paralysis. It is caused by tetanus toxin, tetanospasmin, produced by Clostridium tetani, environmental, soil borne, anaerobic, Gram-positive, sporulating bacterium.Horses and humans appear to be the most susceptible of all mammals, whereas cattle, dogs, and cats are more resistant. The usual route of infection is a soil-contaminated injury, particularly deep, penetrating wounds, where necrotic tissues promote germination of spores, multiplication of anaerobic C. tetani and toxin production. The wound may be trivial, even unnoticed. The diagnosis of tetanus is mainly based on the typical clinical signs: jaw cramping, muscle spasm, painful muscle stiffness, seizures, changes in blood pressure and heart rate, and also on ELISA testing for tetanospasmin. Identification of C. tetani at the portal of entry is often difficult. Prevention of tetanus depends on the regular immunization with tetanus toxoid. Treatment consists of wound care, medications to ease symptoms and supportive care.