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Suggest Tests To Diagnose Tetanus Exposure
Question: Are there any lab tests that can indicate tetanus bacteria exposure? Was bitten by a dog 3 weeks ago, dog vaccinated and passed quarantine observation period so am told no rabies exposure. Got a tetanus shot day after bite and next day same arm was tingling. Following day neck was burning and then both arms tingling. I have had slight musclevtwitching that started in dog bite leg but seems to be in my other leg andcarms and neck at times. Took antibiotics and a steriod and valium. Still concerned about tetanus since it can take several days before showing up. Any thoughts.
Brief Answer:
No labs to indicate tetanus exposure
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic. I understand your fears about possible rabies and tetanus, and have reviewed what other doctors have said in answer to your questions. I wish to reassure you as did they that you do not have symptoms indicating tetanus or rabies. The only test I know of for tetanus in your case would measure the antibodies your body produces in response to the vaccination. This would not tell you of exposure, but would confirm immunity from the shot. But I don't believe it is necessary. You have had the original tetanus series and the update at the proper time. Your current symptoms are more likely due to anxiety attacks from worrying so much. Anxiety can result in hyperventilation, which causes all sorts of funny muscle and nerve sensations. Please try to stop thinking about this. By now you would have shown definite symptoms of tetanus, which are quite dramatic. You don't have them. I hope what I and the other doctors have told you is reassuring. Contact us again if you have further questions.
No labs to indicate tetanus exposure
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic. I understand your fears about possible rabies and tetanus, and have reviewed what other doctors have said in answer to your questions. I wish to reassure you as did they that you do not have symptoms indicating tetanus or rabies. The only test I know of for tetanus in your case would measure the antibodies your body produces in response to the vaccination. This would not tell you of exposure, but would confirm immunity from the shot. But I don't believe it is necessary. You have had the original tetanus series and the update at the proper time. Your current symptoms are more likely due to anxiety attacks from worrying so much. Anxiety can result in hyperventilation, which causes all sorts of funny muscle and nerve sensations. Please try to stop thinking about this. By now you would have shown definite symptoms of tetanus, which are quite dramatic. You don't have them. I hope what I and the other doctors have told you is reassuring. Contact us again if you have further questions.
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
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