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Tetanus (C. tetani)
Infectious DiseaseBacteriaAll SpeciesNew
Key Points
  • Tetanus is a life-threatening neurological disease, caused by toxins from Clostridium tetani bacteria
  • Disease risk and severity depends on species susceptibility
    • Horses are highly susceptible and most commonly affected
  • Transmission occurs when bacterial spores from the environment contaminate wounds
  • The main toxin, tetanospasmin, causes spastic paralysis
  • Classic clinical signs include muscle rigidity, a “sawhorse” stance, third eyelid prolapse and trismus (“lockjaw”)
  • Diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion as there are no reliable ante-mortem tests
  • Treatment aims to neutralise unbound toxin, prevent further toxin production and provide supportive care for the animal
  • Vaccination with a tetanus toxoid is the most effective method of prevention
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Meningitis
  2. Strychnine toxicosis
  3. Botulism (C. botulinum)
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →