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Answer
The correct answer is tetanus
Although the most common first symptom is trismus (or lock jaw) other
early symptoms can include backache, neck stiffness, generalized or localized
weakness, pains in the legs, abdominal cramps, dysphagia and facial paralysis.
In the patient who is partially immune, rigidity may remain localized
to the area near the site of infection.
Strychnine
poisoning closely mimics tetanus, but there is usually a history of
ingestion and symptoms may begin within 30 minutes.
Tetany may also mimic tetanus, but the spasms are very
characteristic and are confined to the hands and feet.
A low serum calcium would confirm tetany. |
