To characterize the clinical profile, intensive care course, healthcare-associated infections, microbiology, and in-hospital outcomes of patients with accidental tetanus treated at a Brazilian referral hospital over a 13-year period, highlighting its public health significance.
Key Findings:
Accidental tetanus remains a significant public health issue in Brazil, with high morbidity (X%) and mortality (Y%).
The clinical course is influenced by the severity of the disease, with longer ICU stays and increased resource use.
Healthcare-associated infections were prevalent among patients, impacting overall outcomes.
Interpretation:
The study highlights the ongoing challenges of managing accidental tetanus in Brazil, emphasizing the need for improved prevention strategies and healthcare processes to enhance patient outcomes and inform healthcare policy.
Limitations:
Retrospective design may introduce bias in data collection and interpretation, particularly in patient selection.
Findings may not be generalizable to other healthcare settings outside Brazil.
Conclusion:
Characterizing accidental tetanus cases in Brazilian ICUs can inform better prevention and treatment strategies, addressing the public health burden of this condition and guiding future research.
by Elaine Cristina de Oliveira Souza, Julia Guedes Valentim do Nascimento, Victor Ota, Arthur Duarte Fantesia Costa Cruz, Caroline Alves da Costa, Ana Luiza Martins de Oliveira, Claudia Caminha Escosteguy, Rafael Mello Galliez
