[Did we forget tetanus?].

Area of Science:

• Medical science
• Public health
• Infectious diseases

Background:

• Tetanus is rare in Serbia, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals over 65.
• Adequate immunization is key to preventing tetanus.
• Each tetanus case may indicate a failure in public health immunization strategies.

Observation:

• A 71-year-old woman sustained a laceration and received inadequate surgical treatment, including a retained foreign body.
• Tetanus postexposure prophylaxis was not administered.
• The patient developed tetanus symptoms five days post-injury and died two days later.

Findings:

• Postmortem examination revealed an improperly treated wound with a foreign body and dressing.
• Signs of acute aerobic infection were present.
• The case underscores the critical importance of proper wound management and timely prophylaxis.

Implications:

• Tetanus is a severe, preventable, and potentially lethal disease.
• Errors in immunization and wound treatment constitute medical malpractice.
• This case highlights the need for improved healthcare protocols to prevent tetanus.