What is the primary treatment for Clostridium botulinum infection?

The primary treatment for Clostridium botulinum infection is the administration of antitoxin. Botulism is caused by a neurotoxin produced by C. botulinum, which leads to symptoms of muscle weakness and paralysis. The antitoxin works by neutralizing the circulating toxin, preventing it from binding to the neuromuscular junction and causing further neurological damage.

While supportive care is crucial in the management of botulism—often involving respiratory support and monitoring of neurological function—it does not directly address the underlying issue of the toxin's effects. Antibiotics are generally not effective for botulism because the syndrome is caused by the toxin rather than the bacteria itself. Gastric lavage might be considered in cases of foodborne botulism if the patient presents early after ingestion of the contaminated food, but it is not a primary treatment and is less commonly used. The timely administration of antitoxin is the most critical intervention to reduce the severity of symptoms and improve outcomes in patients with botulism.