[Hidden danger: a tare cause of painful muscle spasms after long-lie]

The introduction of systematic vaccination programs since the 1940s has led to a significant reduction in prevalence of tetanus in Western countries. However, tetanus cases still occur sporadically, especially in older people with inadequate immunisation status. The diagnosis is primarily clinical. Microbiological isolation of the gram-positive, anaerobic rod-shaped bacteria is often unsuccessful (not necessarily required for diagnosis). Specific treatment includes wound debridement, administration of tetanus immunoglobulin, tetanus vaccination and antibiotic therapy. Moreover, supportive measures up to invasive ventilation are used.