BOTULISM PATHOGENESIS AND MECHANISM OF ACTION OF THE TOXIN

Botulism is one of the acute infectious diseases that develops as a result of the action of a strong neurotoxin on the human body, which is dangerous for life. The etiological factor of this disease is the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. These microorganisms develop in anaerobic conditions and produce a very strong biological poison - botulotoxin. This toxin is recognized in modern biology and medicine as one of the most powerful toxic substances, and even a very small amount of it poses a serious threat to human life. The pathogenesis of botulism is a complex and multi-stage process, in which the toxin enters the body, spreads and selectively affects the nervous system. The toxin often enters the body through improperly prepared or stored food products. In particular, canned food prepared at home is considered the main source of botulism. The toxin, which has entered the gastrointestinal tract, is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and begins to exert its effects through the peripheral nervous system.