Fatal Necrotizing Soft-Tissue Infection Caused by Clostridium tetani in an Injecting Drug User: A Case Report

Surg Infect (Larchmt). 2020 Jun;21(5):457-460. doi: 10.1089/sur.2019.244. Epub 2020 Jan 2.

Abstract

The aim of this brief report is to raise awareness of necrotizing soft-tissue infections caused by Clostridium tetani in intravenous drug users, highlight the potentially unique dangers of this infection in this specific patient population, and outline the course of treatment currently considered the standard of care.

Keywords: Clostridium tetani; injecting drug abuse; necrotizing fasciitis; necrotizing soft-tissue infection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Clostridium Infections / etiology*
  • Clostridium tetani
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / etiology*
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / microbiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Soft Tissue Infections / etiology*
  • Soft Tissue Infections / microbiology
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / complications*