Fire coral sting
Synopsis

When a victim brushes against the projecting tentacles, the nematocysts fire and inject venom causing immediate burning or stinging pain. Rubbing the area will worsen the envenomation and subsequent pain. The area of contact may develop pinpoint red lesions. Edema, blistering, and urticaria are common. The blisters may develop into pustules. Resolution of lesions may take 3-7 days without treatment. Hyperpigmentation of the affected area may last 4-8 weeks.
Nausea and vomiting have been reported but are not common.
Codes
T63.691A – Toxic effect of contact with other venomous marine animals, accidental (unintentional), initial encounter
SNOMEDCT:
403157006 – Fire coral dermatitis
Look For
Subscription Required
Diagnostic Pearls
Subscription Required
Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
Subscription Required
Best Tests
Subscription Required
Management Pearls
Subscription Required
Therapy
Subscription Required
References
Subscription Required