Transcript Clostridium tetani

A. Cravens F2013
Modified by DYH
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Gram positive, rod-shaped, spore forming obligate anaerobe, found primarily in
soil and less commonly in human and animal fecal material.
Causative agent of tetanus(4 clinical types). Spores enter the body via open
wounds and germinate in the ananoxic dead tissue to spread its virulence factors.
30% fatality rate.
Disease characterized by severe and painful muscle contractions strong enough to
cause fractures and muscle tears.
Vaccine and antitoxin available.
http://www.anatomyacts.co.uk/exhibition/object.asp?objectnum=62
http://www.corbisimages.com/stock-photo/rights-managed/42-18705359/clostridium-tetani-bacteria
A. Cravens F2013
Modified by DYH
Virulence factors
-Tetanolysin: endotoxin that damages the tissue surrounding an infection, in order to optimize
conditions in the wound.
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http://www.docstoc.com/docs/123452532/clostridium-tetni
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Diagram_of_structure_of_tetanospasmin.gif#globalusage
Tetanospasmin toxin: Actual causative agent
of tetanus released by bacteria growing
in the wound site. Endotoxin that blocks postsynaptic
inhibition of spinal motor reflexes leading to spastic
contraction of muscles (tetany). Tetanospasmin
toxin is mainly released during stationary phase
of growth.The majority of the toxins are released once the
cell lyses to spread throughout the host.