What is the Difference Between Tetanus and Strychnine Poisoning?

Tetanus and strychnine poisoning are two medical conditions that mimic each other in their symptoms, such as conscious convulsion/spinal seizures. However, they have distinct differences:

Cause: Tetanus is an infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, while strychnine poisoning is caused by the ingestion of strychnine, an alkaloid derived from the seeds of the tree Strychnos nux-vomica.
Pathophysiology: Tetanus inhibits the release of glycine at the nerve terminal, while strychnine inhibits glycine binding to its receptor.
Onset and Duration: Strychnine poisoning develops more rapidly than tetanus and usually has no muscle rigidity between spasms.
Complications: Complications of tetanus may include breathing problems, blockage of a lung artery, pneumonia, broken bones, and death. In contrast, complications from strychnine poisoning may include death caused by asphyxiation due to spasms of the vocal cords.
Treatment: Supportive care, benzodiazepine administration for convulsive episodes, and minimization of stimuli are crucial for treating strychnine poisoning. If indicated, airway integrity, hyperthermia, and muscle breakdown should be addressed.

In summary, tetanus is an infectious disease caused by the Clostridium tetani bacterium, while strychnine poisoning is caused by the ingestion of strychnine. Both conditions share similar symptoms but have distinct differences in their pathophysiology, onset, duration, complications, and treatment.