Risk factors associated with outcome in dogs with tetanus: 38 cases (1987–2005)

Abstract

Results suggest that younger dogs with tetanus may be more likely to develop severe clinical signs. The prognosis for survival in dogs with tetanus is good if abnormalities in heart rate or blood pressure values do not develop.

Diagnosis and treatment of generalised tetanus in dogs

“…While there was no association between antimicrobial administration and progression of signs or 28-day survival rate in one canine study (Burkitt and others 2007), antimicrobials may be important in managing secondary and nosocomial infections in compromised patients.…”

“…Sources: Wilson and Steiner 2005, Adamantos and Boag 2007, Bandt and others 2007, Burkitt and others 2007, Sprott 2008, Rodrigo and others 2012)…”

“… Sources: Dieringer and Wolf 1991, Acke and others 2004, Jackson and Drobatz 2004, Low and others 2006, Adamantos and Boag 2007, Bandt and others 2007, Burkitt and others 2007, Goldhammer and others 2008 …”

“…In one case series, there was no statistically significant difference in survival, severity or duration of signs between dogs receiving TAT and those not receiving it (Bandt and others 2007). In another case series, a relationship between timing of administration of TAT, clinical course and outcome was not identified (Burkitt and others 2007). For now, clinicians must use their judgement about whether to administer TAT, but should be aware that lack of availability of TAT is unlikely to preclude successful treatment of generalised tetanus.…”

“…Subcutaneous administration of a test dose of TAT is widely used to predict hypersensitivity; however, this is not reliable (Burkitt and others 2007). …”