ABSTRACT
Tetanus is a rare disease in developed countries but is prevalent worldwide. It has significant morbidity and mortality. The causative agent Clostridium tetani is ubiquitous in nature. In the United States, approximately 50 to 100 cases are reported per year but rarely in immunocompetent, fully immunized patients. Of the four types of tetanus (generalized, neonatal, cephalic, and localized), cephalic is the least common. We present a case of cephalic tetanus in a 14-year-old boy who completed his primary immunizations with a video of his physical examination findings.
Subject(s)
Tetanus Toxoid/administration & dosage , Tetanus/diagnosis , Adolescent , Humans , Male , Tetanus/drug therapyABSTRACT
Two cases illustrating intentional withholding of information by noncitizen parents of children with major trauma are described. The difficulties and the results of not obtaining an accurate history in the initial assessment of accidental trauma victims are discussed. The core problem in these cases seems to be a fear of health care providers and a false perception that emergency medical services and emergency department personnel are extensions of law enforcement. These cases illustrate potential issues in managing the children of noncitizen immigrants.
