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The Causes of Clostridium Tetani

Clostridium tetani is the bacterial infection that causes the condition known as tetanus or lockjaw. With around 1 million cases worldwide each year -- according to the MayoClinic.com website -- clostridium tetani is most commonly seen in underdeveloped countries. Tetanus can cause jaw and neck pain, painful muscle contractions and breathing difficulties. If left untreated, this condition can be fatal. There are a variety of causes of tetanus, but it is important to remember that tetanus is not transferred from person to person.

  1. Puncture Wounds

    • Clostridium tetani can enter the body through a lesion on your skin. Deep cuts are an ideal environment in which tetanus can thrive because infections can grow in spaces with little to no oxygen. Wounds that become contaminated with dirt or soil are also more likely to develop clostridium tetani.

    Contaminated Needles

    • The use of contaminated needles also can lead to the development of clostridium tetani. Individuals who use unsanitary needles while performing body piercings are at a higher risk. Getting a tattoo from a business that does not use clean needles can also increase your risks of developing tetanus. Needles used with illegal drugs can also be problematic.

    Feces

    • Horses and other animals have a reservoir of clostridium tetani in the their intestinal tracts. Humans also have this bacteria in their intestines. While this is normal and will cause no harm, coming into contact with feces can transit tetanus. Exposure to feces most often happens while handling contaminated soil.

    Medical Procedures

    • While rare, tetanus can be associated with surgical and dental procedures. Tetanus may arise as the result of a dental infection, improper care of a surgical wound and contaminated surgical instruments. Circumcision has also been associated with clostridium tetani.

    Other Causes

    • Because of vaccinations and extreme precautions and sterilization methods taken when it comes to using needles and surgical instruments, doctors rarely see this type of infection. However, clostridium tetani may also occur as the result of skin burns, animal bites, chronic sores, chronic infections, abrasions, insect bites, in those with necrotic tissue and through intravenous drug use.

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