Paedintermediate
Describe the characteristic clinical manifestations of autonomic instability and respiratory compromise that occur in severe tetanus.
Answer
Autonomic instability in severe tetanus manifests as labile blood pressure (fluctuating hypertension and hypotension), cardiac dysrhythmias, tachycardia, profuse diaphoresis, hyperpyrexia, and potential cardiac arrest. Respiratory compromise manifests as laryngospasm, chest wall rigidity, and spasms of respiratory muscles leading to hypoventilation, apnea, and respiratory failure.
Explanation
The material highlights autonomic instability and respiratory difficulty as serious features, including fever, dysrhythmia, labile blood pressure and heart rate, and possible cardiac arrest. These findings indicate potentially life-threatening disease. **Key takeaway:** Tetanus may affect autonomic and respiratory function in addition to causing muscle rigidity.\n\n**Glossary:** **Autonomic instability**: dysregulation of involuntary functions such as heart rate and blood pressure; **dysrhythmia**: an abnormal heart rhythm.
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