title: A case of botulism in New Zealand.
abstract: We describe the first case of food-borne botulism seen in New Zealand for 30 years. Botulism is an important diagnosis to consider in a patient with rapidly progressive descending paralysis and normal sensorium. Early recognition, timely institution of intensive care support and administration of botulism antitoxin are the most important aspects of management.
authors.affiliation: Neurology Department, Wellington Hospital, Private Bag 7902, Wellington South, Wellington, New Zealand. duncan.smyth@ccdhb.org.nz.
authors.forename: Duncan
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Smyth
authors.forename: Eamonn
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Deverall
authors.forename: Michelle
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Balm
authors.forename: Annette
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Nesdale
authors.forename: Ian
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Rosemergy
mesh_terms: D000200:Action Potentials / Q000502:physiology*; D001906:Botulism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000503:physiopathology*; D009520:New Zealand; D020127:Recovery of Function