A Rare Case of Foodborne Botulism in a Pediatric Patient

Abstract

Botulism is a rare and potentially fatal condition caused by the neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, an exotoxin released by this gram-positive bacterium in conducive environments, typically found in homemade canned foods. Among the various clinical manifestations of botulism, foodborne botulism arises from the consumption of food contaminated with preformed botulinum toxin. In 2020, the NCDC Georgia reported nine cases of botulism, one of which involved a child. In our clinic, we encountered a pediatric case of foodborne botulism as part of a familial outbreak following the ingestion of homemade canned red tomatoes. Despite negative lab results for botulism toxin in all family members, it is noteworthy that sample submission for investigation was delayed until after gastric lavage and enema. Nevertheless, all four family members were successfully treated with Botulism Antitoxin (BAT). It is imperative to highlight that patient exhibiting progressive symptoms or signs indicative of botulism, such as paralysis, should receive BAT treatment irrespective of laboratory confirmation. Additionally, BAT treatment should be administered regardless of underlying medical conditions or demographic characteristics such as age, sex, or other demographic factors.