Tetanic contractions, caused by tetanus infection, can lead to painful and spastic muscle contractions throughout the body, and can cause muscle injuries and fractures. Treatment involves antibiotics, surgery, and muscle relaxants. Without treatment, tetanic contractions can be fatal.
A tetanic contraction is a painful, spastic muscle contraction associated with tetanus infection. Tetanic contractions can vary in severity and affect muscles throughout the body. Muscle injuries and fractures can occur if the contractions are severe. Treatment to relieve the tetanic contraction usually involves antibiotics and surgery. If the contractions are not properly treated, death can occur.
Tetanus infection, also known as lockjaw, is caused by exposure to Clostridium tetani (C. tetani), a bacteria commonly found in dirt. An exposed wound is the most common entry point for the bacterium. After entering the body, the bacterium introduces tetanospasmin, a toxin that inhibits nerve and muscle function by initiating a tetanised state.
Tetanospasmin blocks nerve signals by inhibiting motor neuron function. When nerve signals become garbled or intermittent, motor neurons can be overstimulated by mixed communication. Persistent overstimulation causes muscles to contract without releasing them; episodes can last a few seconds or more than a few minutes. When nerve signals return to normal, contractions ease and the affected muscles relax.
Tetanic contractions frequently affect the jaw, hence the name lockjaw. Drool commonly occurs with jaw contractions. Muscles in the neck, trunk, back and limbs may also contract. A severe and prolonged tetanic contraction can cause muscles to stretch until they tear and, when it hits the back, put the spine at risk of fracture.
Additional signs and symptoms may accompany a tetanic contraction. Individuals suffering from it in the neck and torso may have difficulty swallowing and breathing. It is not uncommon for individuals with tetanus and infection to develop rigors, fever, and malaise. In the midst of a contraction, some may have an elevated heart rate and blood pressure. Personality changes, such as irritability, may also occur.
If tetanic contractions are allowed to progress without treatment, vital body functions can quickly be put at risk. For example, tetanic contractions can impair his ability to breathe, putting him at risk for a heart attack. Prolonged oxygen deprivation can also increase the likelihood of irreversible brain damage. Another complication associated with tetanic contractions affecting the torso includes an increased risk of pneumonia, which can be fatal.
Treatment for a tetanic contraction involves eliminating the toxic infection from the body. Antibiotic drugs are given to clear the infection, and in some cases, tetanus immunoglobulin is given to fight the tetanospasmin. Muscle relaxant and sedative medications can be used to relieve contractions and promote rest. Surgery is usually done to get rid of the infection, the cat, and any foreign body that may have entered the wound.
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