Dysphagia as a major symptom of tetanus

Dysphagia is a common symptom presenting to ENT departments. Two cases of tetanus with dysphagia as a major symptom are discussed, together with a review of previously reported cases. Although tetanus is a rare disease in the United Kingdom, the possibility of this diagnosis should be borne in mind in patients presenting with progressive dysphagia, especially if there are other head and neck symptoms present.