T63.694

Clinical Causes: Accidental contact with venomous fish such as stonefish or lionfish Stings from jellyfish or Portuguese man o’ war Bites or stings from venomous sea snakes Contact with venomous sea creatures during swimming, diving, or fishing activities Handling marine animals without proper protective gear

Key Symptoms: Intense localized pain at the site of contact or sting Swelling and redness around the affected area Nausea or vomiting Dizziness or lightheadedness Muscle weakness or spasms Difficulty breathing or swallowing Feeling of numbness or tingling in affected areas In severe cases, systemic symptoms such as collapse or cardiac issues

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis primarily involves a thorough physical examination and a detailed history of recent swimming, diving, or fishing activities. Healthcare providers may look for signs specific to marine envenomation, such as characteristic skin lesions or behavioral symptoms. In some cases, identification of the specific marine animal, if possible, aids in tailoring treatment. Laboratory tests are generally not required for initial diagnosis but may be used to assess systemic effects or complications.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment strategies focus on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. Common approaches include: - Rinsing the affected area with seawater to remove any residual venom - Applying heat to the site, as heat can inactivate certain venom components - Pain management with analgesics - Removing any remaining tentacle fragments or foreign material - Monitoring for signs of allergic reactions or systemic toxicity - Providing antivenom if a specific marine animal venom has a recognized antivenom - Managing severe reactions, including airway support or hospitalization if necessary It is essential for individuals experiencing symptoms after contact with marine animals to seek prompt medical care rather than attempting self-treatment.