Botulism (bacterial infection causing weakness)
About Botulism (bacterial infection causing weakness)
Botulism is a rare and frequently lethal condition. The symptoms are caused by a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. The botulism toxin is one of the most lethal known. There are three types of this disease: wound botulism, food-related botulism and infantile botulism. The infantile form is the most common and is seen between the ages of 2 and 6 months. Food-related botulism occurs when a patient eats food contaminated with the bacteria and toxin. The wound type is the result of a wound becoming infected with the bacteria. Death from this disorder occurs because of paralysis of the breathing muscles.Symptoms
Weakness, breathing problems, vomiting, abdominal cramping, difficulty swallowing, double vision, paralysis.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests include: blood tests to identify the toxin and stool cultures to identify the bacteria.Common tests: BHCG, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, EKG, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
These patients typically require admission to a hospital. Support of breathing is essential sometimes requiring the insertion of a breathing tube and mechanical ventilation. Botulism antitoxin is given to destroy any existing toxin, and antibiotics are administered to kill the bacteria. Consider calling the National Poison Control Phone Number for further information or assistance: 1-800-222-1222.Medical specialties
Infectious Disease Medicine · Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine · Medical Toxicology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Botulism (bacterial infection causing weakness).