Question

The symptoms of botulinum took 12-18 hours to be observed in the patient. How is this best explained?

1) Growing bacteria produce the toxin.
2) Botulinum toxin is immediately filtered by the kidneys and excreted.
3) Toxins can be absorbed through mucous membranes or respiratory tract.
4) Most of the toxins are polar and they take time to cross the nuclear membrane.

Answer 1

The delay in the onset of symptoms in botulism can be explained by the time it takes for the botulinum toxin to be absorbed and reach its target sites in the body.

Step-by-step explanation:

The delay in the onset of symptoms in botulism can be explained by the time it takes for the botulinum toxin to be absorbed and reach its target sites in the body. Option 3) Toxins can be absorbed through mucous membranes or respiratory tract is the best explanation for this delay. Once the toxins are absorbed, they affect the nerves that control muscle contractions, leading to symptoms such as blurred vision, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness.