A few species of sea urchins are toxic to humans. Envenomation while diving can be life-threatening.
Mechanisms of envenomation:
(1) implanted spines
(2) attached pincers (pedicellariae)
Clinical features:
(1) onset of severe pain, which may start immediately
(2) edema and swelling at the point of envenomation
(3) partial paralysis of the affected limb
(4) muscle spasm and weakness
(5) facial swelling
(6) dyspnea
(7) aphonia
(8) cardiac arrhythmias with cardiovascular collapse
(9) respiratory failure
Attachment of pedicellariae is associated with more severe symptoms.
Some species have a colored dye associated with the spines, which may stain the puncture site.
Signs and symptoms may last several hours if the spines or pincers are removed promptly. Embedded spines may cause prolonged pain and can become secondarily infected.
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