HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

How Accurate Is The Spatula Test In Detecting Tetanus?

default
Posted on Sun, 15 Dec 2013
Question: How accurate is the spatula test in detecting tetanus?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Jorge Brenes-Salazar (2 days later)
Brief Answer: Excellent Detailed Answer: Dear patient, Thanks for the query. The spatula test is a very simple, clinical maneuver that involves observing the reaction after touching the posterior palate with a spatula in a patient suspected to have tetanus. The sensitivity has been reported as high as 94% and specificity of virtually 100%; so an excellent test. Here is a useful reference from PubMed Apte NM, Karnad DR. The Spatula Test: A Simple Bedside Test to Diagnose Tetanus". American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 1995; 53 (4): 386–7. PMID 0000 Hope that helps, wish you the best, Dr Brenes-Salazar MD Mayo Clinic MN Cardiology
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Jorge Brenes-Salazar

Cardiologist

Practicing since :2007

Answered : 1198 Questions

Ask a specialist now
premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Ask an Internal Medicine Specialist
Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
backtotop2
How Accurate Is The Spatula Test In Detecting Tetanus?

Brief Answer: Excellent Detailed Answer: Dear patient, Thanks for the query. The spatula test is a very simple, clinical maneuver that involves observing the reaction after touching the posterior palate with a spatula in a patient suspected to have tetanus. The sensitivity has been reported as high as 94% and specificity of virtually 100%; so an excellent test. Here is a useful reference from PubMed Apte NM, Karnad DR. The Spatula Test: A Simple Bedside Test to Diagnose Tetanus". American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 1995; 53 (4): 386–7. PMID 0000 Hope that helps, wish you the best, Dr Brenes-Salazar MD Mayo Clinic MN Cardiology