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[Intussusception in infant with diagnostic botulism: A case report]
Roxana G Spini1, Verónica Ferraris1, María P Glasman1
1Residencia de Clínica Pediátrica, Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde.
Insights
This case highlights a rare presentation of infant botulism mimicking intussusception. Early diagnosis and treatment with botulinum antitoxin are crucial for recovery from this serious condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Toxicology
Background:
- Botulism is a serious public health concern, particularly in Argentina.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to rare and atypical presentations.
- Infant botulism requires prompt recognition and intervention.
Observation:
- A 4-month-old infant presented with constipation, weakness, and altered sensorium.
- Initial symptoms suggested intussusception, leading to surgical intervention.
- Post-operatively, the infant developed hypotonia and respiratory failure.
Findings:
- Clostridium botulinum was identified in stool samples.
- Botulinum toxin type A was detected in the infant's serum.
- The infant was successfully treated with equine botulinum antitoxin.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering infant botulism in infants with acute abdomen and neurological symptoms.
- Timely administration of botulinum antitoxin is critical for patient outcomes.
- Awareness of diverse clinical manifestations aids in preventing diagnostic delays.
Abstract:
Botulism is an important public health problem in Argentina. It is a potentially fatal disease, and its diagnosis may be difficult. There are rare presentation forms of the disease, such as acute abdomen. We present a 4-month baby with a 3-day constipation condition, associated with weakness and abnormal eating attitude in the last 12 hours. The baby presented preserved muscle tone, with no changes in sucking or deglutition according to the mother's observations. Altered sensorium and acute abdomen were found; the patient was entered into the operating room with presumptive diagnosis of intussusception, which was confirmed by pneumatic desinvagination. During hospitalization, the patient did not make good progress and presented weak cry, progressive hypotonia and respiratory failure requiring intensive care. Clostridium botulinum was isolated from the stool sample and botulinum toxin type A was isolated from serum. The patient was treated with equine botulinum toxin. Twenty five days after admission, he was totally recovered.
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