Causative agent
- The causative agent of tetanus is Clostridium tetani, a gram-positive, anaerobic, spore-forming rod-shaped bacterium.
- C. tetani produces two toxins: tetanospasmin and tetanolysin. Tetanospasmin is responsible for the clinical manifestations of tetanus, while tetanolysin may contribute to tissue damage at the site of infection.
- Tetanospasmin is a neurotoxin that binds to sites on the peripheral motor neurons, spinal cord, brain, and sympathetic nervous system. It blocks the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters such as glycine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), resulting in unopposed excitation of the muscles.
- Tetanospasmin has a high affinity for nerve tissue and can travel retrogradely along nerve fibers to reach the central nervous system (CNS). Once bound to nerve terminals, it cannot be removed by antitoxin therapy.
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Correct Answer is B
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Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
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Correct Answer is A
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Correct Answer is C
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Correct Answer is B
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Correct Answer is D
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Correct Answer is B
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