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Neonatal tetanus--report of a case
Milena Ilic1, Ljiljana Pejcic, Branislav Tiodorovic
1Department of Epidemiology, University of Kragujevac Faculty of Medicine, Serbia.
The Turkish Journal of Pediatrics
|November 4, 2010
Summary
Neonatal tetanus, a severe disease from Clostridium tetani toxin, occurred in a newborn due to non-sterile umbilical cord care. Vaccination and hygiene are crucial for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Neonatal tetanus is a severe, generalized tetanus occurring in newborns (3-28 days old) caused by Clostridium tetani toxin.
- Historically, mass immigration in regions like Bujanovac, Medvedja, and Preševo has complicated immunization efforts for general practitioners.
Observation:
- A seven-day-old male infant presented with symptoms including feeding difficulties, trismus, hypertonicity, and opisthotonos.
- The infant had a history of non-sterile home delivery, with non-sterile clay applied to the umbilical cord.
Findings:
- The case confirmed neonatal tetanus in a newborn born to an unvaccinated mother.
- The infection was linked to the application of non-sterile clay to the umbilical cord post-delivery.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical need for maternal vaccination and sterile delivery practices to prevent neonatal tetanus.
- Emphasizes the importance of vigilance by healthcare providers in ensuring full immunization, especially in immigrant populations.
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