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Botulism

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Bacteria
Bacteria

Definition    Return to top

Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. The bacteria may enter the body through wounds, or they may live in improperly canned or preserved food.

Causes    Return to top

Clostridium botulinum is found in soil and untreated water throughout the world. It produces spores that survive in improperly preserved or canned food, where they produce toxin. When eaten, even tiny amounts of this toxin can lead to severe poisoning.

The foods most commonly contaminated are home-canned vegetables, cured pork and ham, smoked or raw fish, and honey or corn syrup. Botulism may also occur if the organism enters open wounds and produces toxin there.

Infant botulism occurs when living bacteria or its spores are eaten and grow within the baby's gastrointestinal tract. The most common cause of infant botulism is eating honey or corn syrup.

Clostridium botulinum also occurs normally in the stool of some infants.

Approximately 110 cases of botulism occur in the U.S. per year. The majority are in infants.

Symptoms    Return to top

Symptoms usually appear between 8 - 36 hours after consuming contaminated food.

In adults, symptoms may include:

Symptoms in infants may include:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

The doctor will perform a physical exam. There may be signs of:

Blood tests can be done to identify toxin. A stool culture may also be ordered. Lab tests can be done on the suspected food to confirm botulism.

Treatment    Return to top

Botulinus antitoxin is given.

Breathing trouble requires hospitalization. The health care team will establish a clear airway and provide supportive therapy. A tube may be inserted through the nose or mouth into the windpipe to provide an airway for oxygen. A breathing machine may be needed.

Intravenous fluids can be given when the patient has swallowing difficulties. A feeding tube may be inserted in the nose.

Cases of botulism are reported to state health authorities or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by health care providers so that the contaminated food can be removed from stores. Antibiotics are often given, but have not been shown to always be beneficial.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Prompt treatment significantly reduces the risk of death.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you suspect botulism.

Prevention    Return to top

NEVER give honey or corn syrup to infants younger than 1 year old -- not even just a little taste on a pacifier.

Prevent infant botulism by breastfeeding, if possible.

Always throw away bulging cans or off-smelling preserved foods. Sterilize home-canned foods by pressure cooking at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.

Keep foil-wrapped baked potatoes hot or in the refrigerator, not out in room temperature.

Update Date: 8/16/2007

Updated by: Arnold L. Lentnek, MD, Division of Infectious Disease, Kennestone Hospital, Marietta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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