BOTULISM PROTOCOL
1. General Characteristics & Pathophysiology
Mechanism of Action
- Once toxin absorbed, it spreads via blood and the lymphatic system to peripheral Ach synapses.
- Irreversibly binds to cholinergic nerve terminals and prevent release of Ach from motor and autonomic nerve terminals resulting in flaccid paralysis and autonomic dysfunction.
- Toxin cannot cross BBB.
2. Clinical Presentation
History: History of meal ingestion (canned food, raw fish).
Clinical Picture
- Specific Symptoms: Visual disturbances, dysarthria, dysphagia, and dry mouth are the 4 most specific neurologic symptoms.
- General Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, sore throat, and abdominal discomfort.
- Timing: Neurologic symptoms delayed to 12-36 hrs. May be up to 8 days.
- Detailed Signs:
- Diplopia, ptosis, ophthalmopleagia, dysarthria, dysphagia, dysphonia, by progressive symmetric descending paralysis.
- Pupils dilated and unreactive or normal.
- Constipation and ileus may occur.
- Profound weakness involving the respiratory muscles is the cause respiratory failure and death.
Note: pt is conscious, no sensory manifestations, no fever.
Therapeutic injections of toxin may result in transient adverse effects, but serious sequelae are rare.
Therapeutic injections of toxin may result in transient adverse effects, but serious sequelae are rare.
3. ER Management Protocol
Assessment: History of meal ingestion.
Unstable Patient
Action: ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation).
ICU ADMISSION
Stable Patient
Action: Gastric lavage within 4 hours of ingestion + AC.
Then Assess for Symptoms:
1. NO neurological symptoms (Asymptomatic):
- Ward admission for 24 h.
- Give AC except if ilieus.
- Observe: Vital data, intestinal sounds, neurological, Anticholinergic.
2. WITH Neurological symptoms:
(Cranial n palsy, skeletal ms paralysis, Anticholinergic/Ileus/Constipation)
ICU ADMISSION
4. ICU Management & Treatment
Supportive Care
- Support respiration, Fluids, ABGs, Electrolytes, RFT.
- Treatment of infant botulism involves supportive care only.
Anti Botulinum Toxin
- Most effective when given within 24 h, but should be given at any time.
- Dose and Infusion rate: As recommended by the ministry of health and inclusion paper.
- Can be given in pregnancy.
INDICATION OF MECHANICAL VENTILATION:
- Progressive weakness
- RR < 10
- Po2 < 60
- 02 sat < 90
- PCO2 > 60