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What organ system does tetanus affect?

Published in Nervous System Diseases 1 min read

Tetanus primarily affects the nervous system.

Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. This bacterium produces a potent neurotoxin called tetanospasmin. This toxin interferes with the normal activity of nerves, specifically those controlling muscle movement.

Here's how tetanus impacts the nervous system:

  • Neurotoxin Production: Clostridium tetani releases tetanospasmin at the site of a wound (e.g., cut, puncture).
  • Nerve Binding: The toxin travels through the bloodstream or along nerve pathways to reach the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord.
  • Inhibition of Inhibitory Neurotransmitters: Tetanospasmin blocks the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters, such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) and glycine, in the spinal cord. These neurotransmitters normally help regulate muscle activity by preventing excessive contraction.
  • Uncontrolled Muscle Contractions: By inhibiting these inhibitory signals, tetanus causes continuous and powerful muscle contractions, leading to the characteristic symptoms of the disease. This includes muscle stiffness, spasms (particularly in the jaw and neck), difficulty swallowing, and rigidity.

Because the toxin primarily disrupts nerve function and its effect is to cause uncontrolled muscle contractions via neurological pathways, tetanus is classified as a disease affecting the nervous system.