Differential Diagnosis for Tetanus
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Tetanus: This is the most likely diagnosis given the question, as the symptoms and presentation of tetanus are unique and distinctive, including muscle rigidity, spasms, and lockjaw.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Strychnine poisoning: This condition presents with similar symptoms to tetanus, including muscle spasms and rigidity, and should be considered in the differential diagnosis.
- Dystonic reactions: These can cause muscle spasms and rigidity, although they are typically more localized and may be related to medication use.
- Meningitis: Inflammation of the meninges can cause stiffness and rigidity, although it is typically accompanied by other symptoms such as fever and headache.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Botulism: Although less common, botulism can present with similar symptoms to tetanus, including muscle weakness and paralysis, and is a potentially life-threatening condition if not treated promptly.
- Rabies: This viral infection can cause neurological symptoms, including muscle spasms and rigidity, and is almost always fatal if not treated promptly after exposure.
- Rare diagnoses
- Tetany: This condition is caused by low calcium levels and can cause muscle spasms and rigidity, although it is typically more generalized and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness and tingling.
- Hypocalcemic crisis: A severe drop in calcium levels can cause muscle spasms, rigidity, and other symptoms, although this is a relatively rare condition.
- Neuromuscular disorders (e.g. stiff person syndrome): These conditions can cause muscle stiffness and rigidity, although they are typically more chronic and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness and fatigue.