Clinical Features of a Lionfish (Zebrafish) Sting

 

Genus: Pterois volitans

 

Range: Southeast Asia, Indian Ocean, Australia, Red Sea

 

Venomous spines are located

(1) in multiple dorsal spines

(2) in pectoral fins

(3) pelvic and anal spines

 

Mode of exposure:

(1) handling the fish while diving along a reef

(2) handling the fish in an aquarium

 

Clinical features:

(1) extreme pain (worst that can be imagined) that starts immediately after being stung

(2) local erythema with blistering

 

Complications:

(1) infection

(2) tetanus

(3) drowning if diving

 

First aid: immersing the site in hot water (< 45°C)