Introduction:
Tetanus (Bacterium Clostridium tetani), also called as lockjaw or
trismus, produces toxin which interferes with muscle contractions, is
fatal by virtue of its respiratory muscle spasm1. Most
commonly the spasms begin in the jaw for few minutes each time for three
to four weeks2. Spasms may be so severe that bone
fractures may occur3. The spasms can also affect the
facial muscles resulting in an appearance called risus sardonicus.
Chest, neck, back, abdominal muscles, and buttocks may be affected. Back
muscle spasms often cause arching, called opisthotonos. With treatment
about 10% of people who contract tetanus die1. Death
can occur within four days.