Condition Lookup
Sub-Category:
Bioterrorism-related diseases
Number of Conditions: 1
CBRNE-Related Botulism
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Bacterial Infections
Sub-category: Bioterrorism-related diseases
Symptoms:
acute flaccid paralysis; respiratory failure; blurred vision; difficulty speaking or swallowing
Root Cause:
Exposure to Clostridium botulinum toxin as a result of deliberate contamination or bioterrorism.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Similar to naturally occurring botulism; laboratory confirmation of toxin in serum or environmental samples.
Treatment:
Prompt administration of botulinum antitoxin and intensive supportive care, including respiratory support.
Medications:
Botulinum antitoxin; antibiotics are generally not recommended unless a secondary wound infection is present.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; associated with intentional acts of bioterrorism.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-risk exposure scenarios, such as handling contaminated materials.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with immediate medical intervention; untreated cases may result in death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Long-term muscle weakness, prolonged hospitalization, and psychological trauma.