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Journal article

Botulism and tetanus

Abstract:
Botulism and tetanus are diseases caused by neurotoxins produced by Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium tetani, respectively. The bacteria and the toxins they produce are closely related. Both diseases are rare in the UK and the developed world, but tetanus, in particular, is a major cause of death in the developing world, causing between 100,000 and 200,000 deaths each year. In botulism a descending flaccid paralysis occurs, whereas in tetanus generalized muscle spasms develop. Autonomic nervous system dysfunction can occur in either disease, and in tetanus cardiovascular parameters can fluctuate widely. Early involvement of respiratory muscles means that rapid recognition and prompt institution of supportive measures are important in improving survival.
Publication status:
Published
Peer review status:
Peer reviewed

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Publisher copy:
10.1016/j.mpmed.2017.09.004

Authors


More by this author
Institution:
University of Oxford
Division:
MSD
Department:
NDM
Sub department:
Tropical Medicine
Oxford college:
St Anne's College
Role:
Author


Publisher:
Elsevier
Journal:
Medicine More from this journal
Volume:
45
Issue:
12
Pages:
739-742
Publication date:
2017-10-27
Acceptance date:
2017-09-15
DOI:
EISSN:
1365-4357
ISSN:
1357-3039


Keywords:
Pubs id:
pubs:746082
UUID:
uuid:4507aeb0-b787-48a0-8ad9-4e00d7875a8b
Local pid:
pubs:746082
Source identifiers:
746082
Deposit date:
2017-11-20

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