Focal canine tetanus: diagnostic value of electromyography

Abstract

A four-year-old, male Italian hound was presented with severe spasticity of both thoracic limbs that worsened with external stimuli. The remainder of the neurological and general physical examination was normal. Complete blood cell count, chemistry profile, and serology for protozoal diseases were within normal limits. Survey radiography of the cervicothoracic spine and abdominal ultrasonography showed no abnormalities. Electromyography of the thoracic limbs demonstrated the presence of "doublets" and simultaneous activity in both agonist and antagonist muscles. These abnormalities may be explained by a defective glycinergic inhibition at the spinal cord level. Together with the history, progression of signs, and clinical findings, electromyography supported a presumptive diagnosis of focal tetanus. The dog received tetanus antitoxin and antibiotic treatment and gradually improved over four months.

Tetanus

“…Nerve conduction velocities are normal. 21 be more likely to experience carpal flexion, whereas dogs exhibit extension. 14,15 The clinical signs may progress with more extensive muscle involvement.…”

Tetanus in Animals — Summary of Knowledge

“…Changes in the values of haematological and biochemical parameters are nonspecific for the diagnosis. [13,18].…”

“…This process results in the classical sign of tetanus-continual excitation of the nerves. The high toxicity of TeNT is due to very fast binding to neurons and the activity of enzymes responsible for the cleavage of the necessary proteins to block neurotransmitter release with ensuing neuroparalysis[13,22,35,37].Tetanus in animalsDifferent animal species differ in their sensitivity to neurotoxins. The most susceptible species are the horse, 56 guinea pig, monkey, then sheep, mouse, goat, and human;…”

“…con-taminated wounds is very problematic because of specific culture conditions and low bacterial counts. C. tetani must be cultured on specific media in compliance with strict anaerobic culture conditions[13,22]. The detection of tetanospasmin can be used for diagnostics.…”

Disorders of Involuntary Movement

“…54 Serum antibody titers to tetanus toxin can be used to confirm the diagnosis, but they are rarely used in clinical practice. EMG has been used to support the diagnosis.…”