Anti-tetanus serum is a preparation of tetanus antibodies administered for the prevention and treatment of tetanus, also known as lockjaw, a serious bacterial infection. In patients with tetanus, bacteria in the body produce a compound known as tetanus toxoid, leading to muscle spasms and decreased muscle control. The condition can be fatal once the airway is involved and the patient is having trouble breathing. It is preventable with anti-tetanus serum.
Terms like “tetanus immune globulin” may also be used to refer to this preparation. Historically, it has been produced by stimulating animals to produce tetanus antibodies and preparing a serum from their blood. Routine tetanus vaccination introduces the body to antibodies of tetanus, providing passive immune protection. The body can also start making its own antibodies. The passive nature of the protection is one reason why people need periodic boosters, to make sure protection is present in the event of tetanus exposure.
The vaccine is routinely given in a combination vaccination for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (DPT). When people are at special risk of developing tetanus, as is the case with puncture wounds with unclean materials, an administration of anti-tetanus serum may be given to jolt the immune system into action with the goal of trapping any tetanus toxin produced in the body before it has a chance to lock on to muscles. Serum is also used in the treatment of patients with known tetanus infection.
Treatment with anti-tetanus serum cannot reverse damage to the body caused by tetanus, but it can prevent further damage, binding to the tetanus toxoid so it can be disposed of safely. When combined with antibiotics to kill the bacteria, it is used to treat patients. Patients may also need supportive care like mechanical ventilation if they have experienced muscle damage as a result of tetanus toxoid exposure.
This product is manufactured by several drug companies and is often made available for free or at low cost to make sure everyone in the population has anti-tetanus serum injections when recommended, as preventative care is far less costly than management of infections after the fact. It is advisable to keep copies of vaccination records so people know when they need booster shots. These copies can also be useful in emergencies when doctors want to know how long it has been since a patient received a booster vaccination. People who aren't sure should be honest about this with their care providers.