Neonatal tetanus
Neonatal Tetanus
Neonatal tetanus (pronunciation: nee-oh-NAY-tuhl TET-nuhs) is a severe and often fatal disease that primarily affects newborns and infants. It is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which produces a toxin that affects the nervous system.
Etymology
The term "neonatal" is derived from the Greek words "neos" (new) and "natal" (birth), referring to the newborn period. "Tetanus" comes from the Greek word "tetanos", which means "taut" or "stretched", referring to the muscle stiffness and spasms that are characteristic of this disease.
Symptoms
The symptoms of neonatal tetanus typically appear within the first 14 days of life, and include difficulty feeding, excessive crying, stiffness, and convulsions. The disease is often associated with unhygienic childbirth practices, particularly when non-sterile instruments are used to cut the umbilical cord.
Treatment
Treatment for neonatal tetanus includes wound care, antibiotics to kill the bacteria, and antitoxin to neutralize the toxin. Supportive care, such as pain management and nutritional support, is also important. However, prevention through maternal immunization with the tetanus vaccine is the most effective strategy.
Related Terms
- Tetanus: A serious bacterial disease that affects the nervous system, leading to painful muscle contractions.
- Clostridium tetani: The bacterium that causes tetanus.
- Umbilical cord: The conduit between a developing embryo or fetus and the placenta.
- Tetanus vaccine: A vaccine that protects against tetanus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neonatal tetanus
- Wikipedia's article - Neonatal tetanus
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