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The otolaryngologic presentation of botulism
Author(s) -
Shugar Martin A.,
Granich Mark S.,
Reardon Edward J.
Publication year - 1981
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1288/00005537-198101000-00018
Subject(s) - medicine , botulism , otorhinolaryngology , presentation (obstetrics) , larynx , tongue , airway , surgery , botulinum toxin , pediatrics , general surgery , pathology , genetics , biology
Botulism, although an uncommon disease, may nonetheless present to the otolaryngologist. The clinical signs of a severely erythematous, parched tongue, oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx, especially when associated with bilateral cranial nerve deficits, should arouse suspicion of this disorder. Once the presumptive diagnosis of botulism is made, the otolaryngologist should expeditiously act to ensure appropriate airway control, as respiratory collapse may be imminent.