Tetanus: Test and Diagnosis

2nd order laboratory parameters – depending on the results of the medical history, physical examination, etc.

  • Bacteriology – wound culture – examination of wound swabs for germs.
  • Creatine kinase (CK) – muscle enzyme – may be elevated.
  • Myoglobin – muscle enzyme – may be elevated.
  • Tetanus antitoxin (only suitable for checking the immunity situation)Tetanus antitoxin: 0.1-1.0 IU/ml booster vaccination indicated; > 10 IU/ml vaccination contraindicated!

Vaccination status – control of vaccination titers

Vaccination Laboratory parameters Value Rating
Tetanus(lockjaw) Tetanus IgG ELISA <0.1 U/ml No sufficient vaccination protection detectable → basic immunization required
0.1-0.2 U/ml Questionable vaccination protection → booster recommended
>0.2 U/ml Sufficient vaccination protection (→ control in 3 years).