|
Diagnosis of botulism can be tricky because
symptoms mimic those presented by other diseases. Botulism may be
confused with Guillain-Barre syndrome, myasthenia gravis, drug
reactions, stroke, or nervous system infection, intoxications (e.g.
carbon monoxide or atropine), or shellfish poisoning. Sepsis is the
most common initial diagnosis for infant botulism. Failure to thrive
may also be suspected. Some reports have linked infant botulism to
5-15% of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS, crib death) cases.
Laboratory tests are used for definitive diagnosis, but if botulism
seems likely, treatment starts immediately.
While waiting for laboratory results, doctors ask
about recently consumed food and work to dismiss other disease
possibilities. A physical examination is done with an emphasis on
the nervous system. As part of this examination, CT scans, MRIs,
electromyographic tests, or lumbar punctures may be ordered.
Laboratory tests involve testing a suspected food and/or the
patient's serum, feces, or other specimens for traces of botulinum
toxin or clostridia. |
