Chapter 19 – Infection of the Nervous System Flashcards

Flashcards covering key diseases and concepts related to infections of the nervous system, including causative agents, symptoms, pathogenesis, epidemiology, prevention, and treatment.

Tetanus

A disease caused by Clostridium tetani, characterized by muscle spasms, "lockjaw", and potential death by suffocation.

Tetanospasmin

Exotoxin produced by Clostridium tetani that blocks the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters, leading to continuous muscle contraction.

Tetanus Treatment

Treatment for tetanus involving wound cleaning, Tetanus Immune Globulin (TIG), vaccine booster, and muscle relaxants.

Botulism

A disease caused by Clostridium botulinum, resulting in dizziness, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, flaccid paralysis, and respiratory failure.

Botulinum Toxin

Toxin that blocks acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle contraction and causing flaccid paralysis.

Botulism Treatment

Treatment for botulism including Botulism Immune Globulin (BIG) and supportive care (ventilation).

Rabies

A viral disease caused by the Rabies Virus (Lyssavirus genus), characterized by burning/tingling at the wound site, weakness, muscle spasms, hydrophobia, confusion, paralysis, and death.

Rabies PEP

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis for rabies, including wound cleaning, Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG), and Human Diploid Cell Vaccine (HDCV).

Polio

A disease caused by the Poliovirus, leading to fever, vomiting, stiff neck, limb pain, and potentially paralysis or respiratory failure.

Salk Vaccine

Vaccine for Polio that is inactivated, injectable and considered safe in the U.S.

Sabin Vaccine

Vaccine for Polio that is live attenuated, oral, used abroad, has a risk of reversion.