Adult intestinal toxaemia is a very rare form of botulism caused by the spores of Clostridium botulinum bacteria getting into the intestines of an adult, causing illness.
Botulism is a rare, complex condition caused by a neurotoxin that attacks the nervous system and can cause life-threatening illness. Botulinum toxin, a substance produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, causes botulism. Three common forms are infant botulism, wound botulism, and food-borne botulism, but adult intestinal toxaemia botulism is a rare form.
All forms of botulism are dangerous medical emergencies. Adult intestinal toxaemia is thought to occur more often in adults with pre-existing gastrointestinal illnesses.
Adult intestinal toxaemia is rare, and symptoms are not well charted. However, common symptoms across a few case studies include:
Along with other neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms, these symptoms are common across most forms of botulism.
Adult intestinal toxaemia is caused by the spores of the Clostridium botulinum bacteria getting into the intestine, growing, and producing botulinum toxin. It’s not clear why this occurs.
Individuals who have weak immune systems or pre-existing gastrointestinal disorders like short bowel syndrome are more likely to develop adult intestinal toxaemia botulism.
If your healthcare provider suspects you have adult intestinal toxaemia botulism, they’ll ask you about your recent symptoms and medical history – specifically, if you have any pre-existing GI conditions. Your provider will look for symptoms like paralysis, muscle weakness, and constipation. They may also try to get blood or stool samples to test for the presence of the toxin.
Complications of adult intestinal toxaemia botulism are not well documented because it is so rare. However, botulism can lead to difficulty speaking, long-term weakness, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing that leads to death if left untreated.
Adult intestinal toxaemia botulism can be treated with antitoxins and antibacterials to eradicate the presence of the toxin and the bacteria that causes the toxin. Some people may also require respiratory assistance, like mechanical ventilation, to assist with breathing.
You may require rehabilitation services after being treated for adult intestinal toxaemia botulism.