Wound botulism in a patient with a tooth abscess: case report and review

Clin Infect Dis. 1993 May;16(5):635-9. doi: 10.1093/clind/16.5.635.

Abstract

We describe a case of wound botulism associated with a tooth abscess in a 5-year-old boy. We reviewed the literature and reports to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Atlanta) of laboratory-confirmed cases of wound botulism. From 1943 through 1990, 47 cases were reported. Type A botulinus toxin was identified in 32 cases, type B in 13, types A and B in 1, and an unknown type in 1. Botulism was associated with wounds from trauma, use of injectable drugs, and surgery. Sinusitis after use of intranasal cocaine has also been associated with botulism. Treatment for wound botulism includes prompt debridement of the wound for eliminating anaerobic conditions, intensive care, and treatment with antitoxin.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Botulinum Toxins / isolation & purification
  • Botulism / diagnosis*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Debridement
  • Dental Caries / complications*
  • Dental Caries / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Periodontal Abscess / complications*
  • Periodontal Abscess / therapy
  • Tooth Extraction
  • Tooth, Deciduous
  • Wound Infection / microbiology*

Substances

  • Botulinum Toxins