RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Management Of Tetanus In The Elderly
JF The Journal of the American Board of Family
                Practice
JO J Am Board Fam Med
FD American Board of Family Medicine
SP 43
OP 49
DO 10.3122/jabfm.5.1.43
VO 5
IS 1
A1 Aubrey L. Knight
A1 James P. Richardson
YR 1992
UL http://www.jabfm.org/content/5/1/43.abstract
AB Background: Tetanus is primarily a disease of the elderly. Both the incidence and the case-fatality rates are higher in the elderly population. Physicians need to be aware of special needs concerning the treatment of tetanus in this population. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature concerning the treatment of tetanus was undertaken. Using the key words “tetanus,” “geriatric,” “elderly,” and “aged,” the MEDLINE files were searched from 1985 to the present. Articles dating before 1985 were accessed by cross-referencing the more recent articles. Results and Conclusions: Once the diagnosis of tetanus is suspected, intensive, expectant management is necessary. The patient should receive intensive care with treatment aimed at prevention of muscle spasms, prevention of respiratory tract and metabolic complications, and neutralization of circulating toxin. Potential complications of tetanus include pulmonary embolus, aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, and pressure sores.