Infantile Botulism

Clostridium botulinum, a toxin most commonly found in soil and honey products, is the main source of infantile botulism. Botulinum toxin is one of the most deadly substances that can attack the neuromuscular system, resulting in an extensive range. A high index of suspicion is crucial in promptly diagnosing and treating infantile botulism because of the potential for abrupt progression into respiratory failure. The purpose of this study is review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations of infantile botulism, as well as the valuable role of the nurse practitioner plays in preventing this disease within the infantile.

This paper is a review article that based on collecting data from electronic sources, data base sources Pub Med, Science Direct and published from 2000 to 2014 research related to the topic.

Infant botulism results from the absorption of heat-labile neurotoxin produced in situ by ingested Clostridium Botulinum. Honey and environmental exposure are the main sources of acquisition of the organism. Clinical manifestations are owing to progressive neuromuscular blockade, initially of muscles innervated by cranial nerves and later of the trunk, extremities and diaphragm. The diagnosis is made on clinical grounds and is confirmed by recovery of the organism or by detection of toxin in the stool. Management includes meticulous supportive intensive care that may include mechanical ventilation and administration of human botulinum immunoglobulin in severe cases.

Treatment of infant botulism type A, B or type C with BIG-IV should be initiated promptly and not delayed for laboratory confirmation of diagnosis because prompt treatment ends further progression of the illness. Prompt treatment of infant botulism with BIG-IV is safe and effective in shortening the length and cost of the hospital stay and reduction the severity of illness. Timely provision of nursing services and promotion of public awareness through education are important.