[Immunization against tetanus - studies about the duration of protection (author's transl)].

In spite of proper treatment tetanus carries a high mortality up to 75% and more Since 1927 an active immunization against tetanus is available; it prevents the disease. With a radioimmuno-assay antibodies in the blood, which are neutralizing the tetanus toxin, can be estimated accurately. In 92 healthy persons below 55 years, who had been vaccinated between two up to ten years previously, antibody titers sufficient to prevent the disease were found without any exemption. The increase of antibody-titers after active immunization in healthy persons is described; it depends on the basic titer. If in case of a preexisting high level of neutralizing antibodies an active immunization is performed, allergic reactions of Arthus- or tuberculine-type may occur.