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[Botulism in newborn infants]
P A Tølløfsrud1, E A Kvittingen, P E Granum
1Nyfødtseksjonen, Barneklinikken, Rikshospitalet, Oslo.
Summary
Infant botulism, caused by Clostridium botulinum type A, is rare in Europe. This case highlights the risk of honey consumption in infants, even with imported products.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Toxicology
Background:
- Infant botulism is the most common form of botulism, predominantly reported in the USA.
- The condition is rare in Europe, with limited documented cases.
Observation:
- A three-month-old infant in Norway developed botulism symptoms after consuming Argentinian honey.
- Clinical presentation included presynaptic neuromuscular dysfunction confirmed by electromyography.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was confirmed by detecting Clostridium botulinum type A neurotoxin in the infant's faeces.
- The infant recovered fully with supportive care, including breast-milk and lactobacillus supplementation.
Implications:
- Infants under one year are at risk due to their developing intestinal flora.
- Honey ingestion is a known risk factor, emphasizing the need for caution with honey consumption in infants.