Lionfish and Stonefish Envenomation Follow-up
- Author: Scott A Gallagher, MD, FACEP; Chief Editor: Rick Kulkarni, MD more...
Deterrence/Prevention
Most injuries and envenomations caused by Scorpaenidae result from inadvertently stepping on, carelessly handling, or harassing them.
Most Scorpaena (eg, scorpionfish) and Synanceia (eg, stonefish) species are never seen until a sting occurs because of their excellent camouflage amongst rocks or along the sea bottom. Wading in bare feet, particularly at night, should be avoided. While shoes, diving booties, gloves, and wetsuits may provide some protection, they are easily penetrated by the stout, sharp spines of stonefish, and it is best to avoid touching the sea bottom or to use a shuffling gait while wading.
Pterois (eg, lionfish) species are frequently free-swimming or hovering in small caves or crevices for protection. Do not provoke or corner these fish, as they may dart forward, resulting in an envenomation. Marine aquarists, in particular, must be cautious when cleaning their tanks or attempting to transfer captive lionfish.
Patient Education
- For excellent patient education resources, visit eMedicine's Infections Center, Environmental Exposures and Injuries Center, and Bites and Stings Center. Also, see eMedicine's patient education articles Tetanus, The Bends - Decompression Syndromes, and Stingray Injury.
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