Alternative Names & Classifications:
Tetanus (CLINICAL)
Description
Spores of Clostridium tetani ubiquitous in soil enter the body through deep puncture wounds or severe tissue trauma. Inside the anaerobic wound environment, the bacteria produce tetanospasmin, a potent neurotoxin that blocks inhibitory nerve signals. It affects unvaccinated individuals globally, causing progressive, agonizing paralysis that is frequently fatal without intensive care.