Introduction

Tetanus in canines is rare due to their relative insensitivity to tetanospasmin. However, fatal courses are documented in this species. The primary aim of this retrospective case series was to identify variables associated with mortality in dogs with tetanus.

Methods

Computerized records of dogs with a clinical diagnosis of tetanus presented to JLU Giessen between 2006 and 2020 were reviewed. Data included history, signalment, clinical and clinicopathological findings, treatment, complications and survival to discharge (data is presented as median (range) and frequencies). Disease severity was assessed according to a previously established 4 class scheme: I - facial symptoms only; II - generalised rigidity or dysphagia; III - additionally recumbency or convulsions; IV - additionally severe autonomic derangements. Non-parametric tests were used to identify differences between non-survivors and survivors. Significance was set at p<0.05.

Results

Forty-two dogs were included. Age and body weight were 36 (2–110) months and 27 (6–44) kg, respectively; fifty % were male. Duration of clinical signs was 3 (1–10) days. A wound was detected in 74% (31/42) of dogs, located at the paws in 84% (26/31). Eighty-one % (34/42) of dogs were initially classified as I or II and 19% (8/42) as III or IV. Alongside with other medications antitoxin, metronidazole, methocarbamol and acepromazine were administered to 45% (19/42), 74% (31/42), 53% (22/42) and 51% (21/41) of dogs, respectively. Twenty-four % (10/42) of dogs died or were euthanized. There was no significant difference between non-survivors and survivors regarding age, gender, use of antitoxin, metronidazole and methocarbamol. However, there was a significant difference in duration of clinical signs (2 vs. 4 days, p=0.016), history of vomiting (6/10 vs. 6/32, p=0.020) and plasma-creatinine concentration upon admission (57 vs. 77 µmol/L, p=0.021). Moreover, non-survivors were significantly more often treated with acepromazine (9/10 vs. 12/31, 0=0.009), more often classified ≥III upon admission (5/10 vs. 1/32, p=0.002) and more frequently developed respiratory complications (8/9 vs. 1/29, p<0.001) or hyperthermia (8/9 vs. 7/23, p=0.005).

Conclusion

Disease severity and respiratory complications might be the most important determinants of survival in canine tetanus.

Disclosures

No disclosures to report.