T63.624

Clinical Causes: Direct contact with jellyfish tentacles during swimming, diving, or handling in the water Accidental brushing against jellyfish in the water or on the beach Attempting to handle or remove jellyfish from the beach without proper protection Encountering jellyfish washed up on the shore, especially if tentacles are still present Presence of undetermined or undocumented jellyfish species in coastal waters

Key Symptoms: Immediate pain or burning sensation where touched Redness and swelling at the contact site Itching or rash developing over the affected area Skin blistering or formation of welts In some cases, nausea or vomiting if toxins are absorbed or if the sting is severe In rare cases, systemic reactions such as dizziness, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face and throat

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis primarily involves clinical evaluation based on the patient's history of water or jellyfish contact and observed skin reactions. Identification of the specific jellyfish is often difficult, especially when the species is undetermined. Healthcare providers may consider the geographical location and time of year to assess potential jellyfish encounters. In more severe cases, additional tests might be performed to monitor systemic reactions or rule out secondary infections.

Treatment Protocols: Rinsing the affected area with vinegar to deactivate remaining nematocysts (stinging cells) Removing any tentacles carefully using tweezers or gloves, avoiding direct contact Cleansing the area with seawater (not freshwater) to prevent further nematocyst activation Applying cold packs to reduce pain and swelling Using over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen Taking antihistamines to lessen allergic reactions and itching Seeking emergency care if signs of systemic toxicity or severe allergic reactions occur, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face