Neurocognitive deficits after botulism: a clinical case series study.

PURPOSE: This case study examined long-term cognitive deficits after botulism. Only a very limited number of studies on post-acute cognitive impairment after botulism exist, and data are incomplete.

METHOD: A semi-structured interview on long-term cognitive consequences of botulism was conducted for six family members, who contracted the infection after ingestion of lumpfish-roe 2.5 years ago. Two of the family members underwent neuropsychological assessment of attention, memory, and executive functioning as well.

FINDING: Results of the semi-structured interviews showed individual subjective cognitive deficits across processing speed, attention, concentration, short-and long-term memory, and executive functioning. Test results showed mild cognitive impairment in attention and mild-moderate deficits in executive functioning.

CONCLUSION

These results support previous findings that patients of various infectious diseases may suffer unspecific long-term neurocognitive deficits. Assessment and initiation of relevant post-acute treatment and rehabilitation might be central to prognosis, functional ability, and psychological well-being.