T63.691

Clinical Causes: Accidental contact with venomous marine animals while swimming, diving, or fishing Handling marine animals without proper protection Standing on or touching marine creatures such as sea urchins or anemones Crashing into or unknowingly disturbing animals like jellyfish or lionfish

Key Symptoms: Immediate pain or burning sensation at the contact site Swelling, redness, or itching around the affected area Skin irritation or rash Numbness or tingling sensations Nausea or vomiting Muscle cramps Difficulty breathing or chest tightness in severe cases Dizziness or lightheadedness Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis often involves a healthcare provider evaluating the patient's history of recent marine activity and contact with marine animals. Physical examination focuses on the affected areas and assesses for signs of allergic or systemic reactions. In some cases, identification of the specific marine animal may assist in confirming the diagnosis. Laboratory tests are typically not required but may be performed if systemic illness persists or worsens to rule out secondary infections or other underlying conditions.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment primarily aims to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Typical management includes: - Rinsing the affected area with seawater (not freshwater, which can worsen envenomation) - Carefully removing any tentacles or residual animal parts using tweezers or a scraping tool - Applying heat to the area, such as soaking in hot water (not scalding), may help inactivating venom - Administering antihistamines to control allergic reactions - Using pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs for discomfort - Providing emergency care for severe allergic reactions, including epinephrine injection if indicated - Seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms escalate or signs of systemic involvement develop In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed if secondary bacterial infections occur following skin breaches.