Episode 92: Marine Ingested Poisons and Infections
Jan 9, 2024
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Guest Alexis Koda discusses marine ingested poisons and infections, highlighting scombroid and ciguatera poisoning symptoms, different fish sources, bacterial infections treatment, and tailored treatments for vulnerable populations.
Scombroid poisoning from fish like tuna can cause flushing and headache, while ciguatera from toxic dinoflagellates results in GI and neuro symptoms.
Marine skin infections are polymicrobial, requiring prophylactic antibiotics for delayed wounds and consideration of Vibrio species causing severe manifestations.
Deep dives
Marine Ingested Poisons and Infections
Scombroid is a condition resulting from ingesting improperly preserved fish like tuna or mackerel, causing symptoms such as facial flushing, severe headache, and metallic taste. On the other hand, ciguatera is caused by fish consuming toxic dinoflagellates, with barracuda being a common source. Symptoms include GI and neurologic issues, marked by temperature reversal, perioral peristhesias, and burning feet. While scombroid is treated with antihistamines, ciguatera management focuses on supportive care for neuro symptoms.
Bacterial Infections and Vibrio Species
Skin infections from marine exposure are typically polymicrobial, with potential gram-negative involvement. Prophylactic antibiotics are considered for wounds with delayed care or retained foreign bodies. When dealing with Vibrio species like parahemolyticus and vulnificus, presentations range from cholera-like diarrhea to skin infections causing necrosis. Treatment involves supportive care, potential antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, and vigilance for severe manifestations in susceptible populations.
Welcome to the emDOCs.net podcast! Join us as we review our high-yield posts from our website emDOCs.net.
Today on the emDOCs cast, we have a special guest, Alexis Koda, core faculty at the Nazareth Emergency Medicine Residency program in Philadelphia, PA. Alexis takes us through marine ingested poisons and infections.
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