[Infant botulism].
Infant botulism is a rare disease that affects infants below the age of 12 months following absorption of neurotoxins produced by ingested Clostridium botulinum spores. The clinical manifestations are caused by symmetrical cranial nerve palsies followed by descending, symmetric flaccid paralysis of voluntary muscles. Presenting symptoms include constipation, lethargy, mydriasis and ptosis. The diagnosis is made on the basis of clinical examination and confirmed by isolating the toxin in serum or stools. Treatment consists of supportive intensive care and treatment with antitoxins.
Hoffmann
Thomas
T
Børneafdelingen, Hvidovre Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark. thoffmann@dadlnet.dk
Mølbak
Kåre
K
Paerregaard
Anders
A
D001904:Botulinum Antitoxin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001906:Botulism / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D003014:Clostridium botulinum; D003422:Critical Care; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D011379:Prognosis; D013171:Spores, Bacterial
D001904:Botulinum Antitoxin