Health encyclopaedia

Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

Diagnosis of Botulism

The diagnosis of the first case in a group may be difficult because of the rarity of the disease. However, once more than one case occurs, diagnosis can usually be made on the basis of the symptoms, the progressive paralysis and the history of what has been eaten recently. There may be confusion with the Guillain-Barré syndrome, Myasthenia gravis, mushroom poisoning or other forms of poisoning.

The diagnosis can be confirmed by a test for botulinum toxin in the bloodstream or urine. Electrical tests of nerve and muscle function can also be helpful.

• B12 deficiencyBabies cryingBabies, weaningBack painBad breathBaker's cystBalanitisBarium enemaBedwettingBehcet's diseaseBell's palsyBicarbonateBinge eatingBiopsyBipolar affective disorderBirthmarksBitesBites, insectBites, snakeBladder infectionsBladder stonesBleeding gumsBlepharitisBlistersBlood donationBlood gases testBlood groupsBlood poisoningBlood pressure (high)Blood pressure (low)Blood testsBlood transfusionBlushingBody odourBody piercingBoilsBone cystBone marrow donationBone marrow transplantBotoxBottle feedingBotulismBrain abscessBrain deathBrain injuryBrain tumourBreast abscessBreast implantsBreast lumpBreast reductionBreastfeedingBreathlessnessBroken bonesBronchiectasisBronchiolitisBronchitisBronchodilator drugsBulimiaBunionBursitis

  ---