Intrathecal tetanus immunoglobulins in the management of tetanus.

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical profile, treatment and outcome of tetanus in children treated with intrathecal tetanus immunoglobulin. (TIG)

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of hospital records of tetaus cases admitted to the pediatric ICU during the five year period between 1999 to 2004 was done.

RESULTS

There were 66 cases of tetanus treated with intrathecal TIG. Children below 5 years formed 53% of cases and 47% were above 5 years. Totally unimmunized children constituted 82% of cases and 18% partially immunized children. The portal of entry was otogenic in 58% of cases and injury in30% of cases. The common complications observed included thrombophlebitis, aspiration pneumonia, laryngospasm and autonomic system involvement. There were no complications specific to intrathecal administration of TIG. The mortality due to tetanus was 9%.

DISCUSSION: Mortality and morbidity due to tetanus was less in the present study compared to other centers where TIG is given intramuscularly.

CONCLUSION

Intrathecal TIG is effective in the treatment of mild and moderate tetanus. Randomized controlled clinical trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of intrathecal TIG in the management of severe tetanus.