Botulism primarily causes which of the following?

Botulism primarily causes which of the following?

• A. Kidney failure
• B. Seizures
• C. Respiratory infection
• D. Muscle paralysis

Answer: (D)

Botulism is caused by a toxin that blocks the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, so muscles can’t contract. This produces a descending, symmetric flaccid paralysis—weakness that starts with cranial nerves (vision, swallowing, speaking) and moves to the limbs and respiratory muscles. Because breathing relies on these muscles, respiratory failure is a major danger, but the root problem is neuromuscular paralysis rather than an infection of the lungs. Kidney failure, seizures, and respiratory infection aren’t typical primary effects of botulism. So the primary outcome you’d expect is muscle paralysis.

Botulism is caused by a toxin that blocks the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, so muscles can’t contract. This produces a descending, symmetric flaccid paralysis—weakness that starts with cranial nerves (vision, swallowing, speaking) and moves to the limbs and respiratory muscles. Because breathing relies on these muscles, respiratory failure is a major danger, but the root problem is neuromuscular paralysis rather than an infection of the lungs. Kidney failure, seizures, and respiratory infection aren’t typical primary effects of botulism. So the primary outcome you’d expect is muscle paralysis.