Factors associated with mortality in patients with tetanus in Cameroon

Tetanus constitutes a significant cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa, with case fatality rates as high as 64%, 47%, and 43.1% reported in Nigeria, Uganda, and Tanzania, respectively. However, the knowledge gap on factors that influence tetanus mortality still exists in Cameroon.

To identify the factors that influence the mortality of tetanus patients in three regional hospitals in the North West and South West Regions of Cameroon.

This was a 7-year retrospective case-series study. Socio-demographic and clinical data of tetanus cases admitted in Bamenda, Buea, and Limbe Regional Hospitals from January 2010 to March 2017 were collected and analysed.

This study recorded 38 cases, but excluded five due to missing inpatient files. Of the 33 cases considered in this study, 27 (81.8%) were males. The mean age of the patients was 32 years. A tetanus mortality rate of 48.5% was recorded - thus, 16 tetanus-related deaths. Mortality was higher amongst patients with incubation periods less than 7 days; the onset of trismus and generalized spasms less than 8 days after exposure; the presence of autonomic dysfunction; the presence of respiratory dysfunction; application or introduction of local regimens, soil or animal waste at the portal of entry; delayed debridement greater than 2 days after onset of tetanus; and a severe clinical disease state.

This study, therefore, highlights the need to ensure universal vaccination coverage for high-risk populations; males, active population (20-40 years), and farmers. More still, this study emphasizes the need to improve access and utilisation of mechanical ventilation in severe tetanus cases.