Foodborne Botulism, a Real Challenge for Infectious Disease Specialists

Authors

  • Iosif Marincu Department of Infectious Diseases, Pneumology and Parasitology, „Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania.
  • Iulia Vidican Department of Infectious Diseases, Pneumology and Parasitology, „Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania.
  • Mirela Turaiche Department of Infectious Diseases, Pneumology and Parasitology, „Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania.
  • Livius Tirnea Department of Infectious Diseases, Pneumology and Parasitology, „Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/cdhr/v8/2191F

Keywords:

Foodborne botulism, anti-botulinum serum, food safety, public health

Abstract

Background: Botulism is a fatal illness if not diagnosed early and treated adequately.

Aim: The aim of this research was to assess the clinical and evolutionary patterns of foodborne botulism.

Materials and Methods: Data from four botulism cases was analysed retrospectively.Epidemiological causes, clinical manifestations, and specific bioassay findings for botulinum neurotoxin identification all supported a positive diagnosis.

Results: Serum samples tested positive for type B botulinum toxin. Under treatment with polyvalent antibotulinum serum evolution was positive for three cases, the forth requiring intensive care and mechanical ventilation but with recovery after months of rehabilitation.

Conclusion: Botulism/food poisoning can be caused by consuming inappropriately canned and stored food.

Published

2021-05-27

How to Cite

Iosif Marincu, Iulia Vidican, Mirela Turaiche, & Livius Tirnea. (2021). Foodborne Botulism, a Real Challenge for Infectious Disease Specialists. Challenges in Disease and Health Research Vol. 8, 78–86. https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/cdhr/v8/2191F

Issue

Challenges in Disease and Health Research Vol. 8

Section

Chapters