ABSTRACT
Tetanus is a neurological disorder caused by tetanospasmin which is liberated by Clostridium tetani. It is characterized by increased muscle tone and spasms. Tetanus has been well known since antiquity. Although it has become a rarity in developed countries, tetanus is a common health problem in the developing countries. The incidence and survival rates of tetanus are improving in developing countries; however, much more needs to be done to further reduce the incidence of this preventable disease. Ancient Egyptian physicians recognized the relationship between wounds and the disease producing spasticity, violent movements and death; they used these features to predict the prognosis. The clinical advances in the 19th century resulted in the following description by Sir William Gower:1
