Tetanus

Tetanus (or lockjaw) is a disease that leads to muscle contractions that stay that way for some time.

Infection generally occurs through wound contamination, and often involves a cut or deep puncture wound. The main symptoms are caused by tetanospasmin, a neurotoxin produced by the anaerobic bacterium Clostridium tetani. As the infection goes on, muscle spasms develop in the jaw. This is usually followed by problems with swallowing. The disease leads to muscle stiffness and spasms in other parts of the body. Infection can be prevented by proper immunization and by post-exposure prophylaxis.

References

 Other websites 

 Tetanus Information from Medline Plus
 Tetanus Symptoms 
 Tetanus Surveillance -- United States, 1998-2000 (Data and Analysis)

Category:Diseases caused by bacteria