[Food-borne botulism in 2 brothers]

Two boys with symptoms of food borne botulism are presented. Confirmation of diagnosis relied on proof of toxin in the serum of both patients by the so called mouse neutralization test, whereas the EMG showed negative results. Both boys recovered fully without administration of equine antitoxin. Differential diagnosis and treatment of botulism are discussed. Signs of internal and external ophthalmoplegia, dry mouth, descending paralysis, obstipation with weakness, absence of fever and lucid sensorium as cardinal symptoms should always bring botulism to mind.