Five years study of mortality and morbidity patterns of Tetanus cases in a Tertiary Care PICU (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit), Multan Pakistan.

Abstract

Objectives: Tetanus is an avoidable disease. Significant reduction in the incidence of tetanus is observed around the globe but in Pakistan, its incidence is still high. The objective of current study was to determine the demographic, clinical features, outcome and complications of tetanus patients admitted in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Study Design: This Descriptive-observational study. Setting: At PICU of The Children Hospital & ICH Multan Pakistan. Periods: 1st January 2013 to 31st December 2017. Material and Methods: A total of 77 tetanus cases admit through the study period in PICU. Clinical features, complications, duration of stay and outcome of 77 tetanus cases during study period were noted. Results: Amongst a total of 77 cases, 62 were male (80.6%) and 15(19.4%) female. Most (57.1%) were between 2 to 7 years. Twenty five (32.4%) were unvaccinated, 52 (67.6%) partially vaccinated. According to the grade of severity (Ablett classification), majority (40) were of grade-III. Regarding the outcome, 15 (19.5%) expired. Conclusion: Tetanus is a fatal disease with high mortality rate. Vaccination and right management of the disease are the best options to minimize the load of tetanus in our country.