Botulizmus

Botulizmus is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. These toxins, known as neurotoxins, interfere with nerve function, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. The bacteria are found in soil and can produce spores that are highly resistant to heat. If these spores contaminate food and are not properly destroyed during cooking, they can germinate and produce the toxin.

There are several forms of botulism. Foodborne botulism occurs when contaminated food is consumed. Infant botulism is the most common form in some regions and happens when infants ingest botulism spores, which then grow in their intestines and produce toxin. Wound botulism can develop if Clostridium botulinum infects a wound, producing toxin there. A less common form is iatrogenic botulism, which can occur from accidental overdose of botulinum toxin injections used for cosmetic or medical purposes.

Symptoms typically appear within hours to days after exposure and can include blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness that progresses downwards. In severe cases, botulism can affect the muscles controlling breathing, leading to respiratory failure and death if not treated promptly.

Diagnosis is usually made based on clinical symptoms and confirmed by laboratory tests detecting the botulinum toxin in blood, stool, or suspected food. Treatment involves administering an antitoxin, which neutralizes the toxin circulating in the bloodstream before it can bind to nerve endings. Supportive care, including mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure, is also crucial. Prevention focuses on proper food handling and storage, particularly for home-canned goods, and ensuring sterile techniques for medical procedures involving botulinum toxin.