Clostridium botulinum Infection

Excerpt

Clostridium is among the largest bacterial genera, belonging to the Firmicutes phylum. Clostridia are gram-positive, endospore-forming, obligate anaerobic bacilli that form exotoxins. They are ubiquitous in the environment and can also be found in humans and animals. Clostridium botulinum, Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium tetani, Clostridium difficile, and Clostridium sordellii are commonly encountered clostridial species. This activity focuses on Clostridium botulinum, which produces botulinum neurotoxin, the most potent biologically-known substance that is the cause of botulism. Botulism is a neuroparalytic syndrome of reversible, symmetrical flaccid paralysis, and although rare, this infection can lead to respiratory failure and death. Due to its potential fatality and the fact that it can be mistaken for other similar syndromes, the diagnosis can be difficult or missed. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for Clostridium botulinum infection when evaluating patients to diagnose and treat it promptly.