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Pathology
Clostridium botulinum is a gram positive rod, produces heat-resistant neurotoxin leading to neuromuscular blockade.
Aetiology
Improperly preserved food, also contaminated heroin in IVDU.
Signs
Dilated pupils, ophthalmoplegia, reduced gag reflex, dysarthria.
If untreated eventually leads to respiratory depression and death..Symptoms
Nausea, dry mouth, diarrhoea, dysphagia.
Paralysis tends to affect the cranial nerves first, leading to diplopia
Investigations
Microbiology: Stool culture
Treatment
Medical: Benzylpenicillin, HDU/ITU.
Antitoxin: IM Antitoxin
Prognosis
Poor prognosis - 50% mortality
Difficulty speaking, trouble swallowing, weakness, fatigue, dyspnoea
Key Facts
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Key Images
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Key References
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