Author/Authors :
Beheshti, Sh Department of Clinical Pathology,Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz , Khajehdehi, A Department of Clinical Pathology,Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz , Rezaian, GR Department of Clinical Pathology,Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz , Khajehdehi, P Department of Clinical Pathology,Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz
Abstract :
Background: The predisposing and prognostic factors for neonatal
tetanus (NNT) have not been adequately studied in southern Iran.
Objective: The present study was undertaken in Fars Province to
further clarify the status of neonatal tetanus in this region.
Methods: The mortality rate was correlated with demographic and
clinical findings in 112 cases of neonatal tetanus. In addition, the
height and weight of NNT patients were compared to those of 112
age- and sex-matched normal neonates.
Results: Patients were predominantly males (82%) with a male to
female ratio of 4.8:1. Although the clinical presentation and outcome
of male and female patients were very similar, both groups had
a significantly (p<0.05) lower birth weight compared to their control
counterparts. None of the mothers had been immunized against
tetanus and 92% had delivered at home under unsterile conditions.
The mortality rate was 44% and strongly related to the age of the
patients on admission
