On June 30, a 47- year- old man was hospitalized with dizziness, blurred vision, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and nausea. Examination revealed facial paralysis. The patient had partially healed superficial knee wounds incurred while laying cement. He reported eating home- canned green beans and stew containing roast beef and potatoes 24 hours before onset of symptoms. The patient should be treated with
A) antibiotics.
B) surgery.
C) antitoxin.
D) supportive care, including respiratory assistance.
E) vaccination.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Botulism is a neuroparalytic illness caused by the ingestion of preformed botulinum toxin. The toxin is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which is found in soil and dust. Botulism can be fatal if not treated promptly. The symptoms of botulism include dizziness, blurred vision, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and nausea. Examination may reveal facial paralysis. The patient should be treated with supportive care, including respiratory assistance.

On June 30, a 47- Year- Old Man Was Hospitalized