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Foodborne botulism presenting as small bowel obstruction: a case report
Alberto Friziero1, Cosimo Sperti2, Gianfranco Da Dalt1
1Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, 3rd Surgical Clinic, University of Padua, via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padova, Italy.
BMC Infectious Diseases
|January 13, 2021
Summary
Food poisoning from Clostridium botulinum can rarely cause small bowel obstruction. Early diagnosis of this rare condition is crucial for prompt treatment and preventing severe complications.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Small bowel obstruction is a common emergency department presentation.
- Foodborne botulism, caused by Clostridium botulinum, is a rare but critical differential diagnosis.
- Subtle neurological symptoms can delay the diagnosis of botulism.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old male presented with abdominal pain, fever, and intermittent diplopia, initially suggestive of small bowel obstruction.
- Neurological signs worsened despite non-operative management for presumed obstruction.
- A family history of similar symptoms and consumption of homemade preserves pointed towards foodborne botulism.
Findings:
- Clinical diagnosis of foodborne botulism was established based on subtle neurological signs and epidemiological factors.
- Prompt administration of antitoxin led to rapid clinical improvement.
- Botulism can present atypically, mimicking gastrointestinal emergencies.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering rare etiologies like botulism in patients with apparent small bowel obstruction.
- Emphasizes the need for thorough family history and repeated clinical assessments for early diagnosis.
- Timely diagnosis and treatment of botulism are vital to prevent rapid clinical deterioration and ensure life-saving outcomes.
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