Tetanus After Anorectal Abscess

As illustrated by this case report, tetanus can occur as a complication of anorectal surgical procedures or abscesses just as it can in other wounds. A synergistic infection of the perineum occurred in a 62-year-old man 8 days after drainage of an anorectal abscess. He was treated with vigorous debridement and antibiotics and was given tetanus prophylaxis. The next day, tetanus developed, presumably from the original abscess. The patient recovered after aggressive therapy, including muscle relaxants and ventilatory support.