Tetrodotoxin
Revision as of 23:13, 7 September 2016 by ClaireLewis (talk | contribs)
Background
- Neurotoxin found in several marine animals (pufferfish, certain angelfish, blue-ringed octopus)
- Blocks neuronal action potential by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels
- Consumption of improperly prepared pufferfish responsible for vast majority of human toxicity
Clinical Features
Onset of symptoms usually within 30 min to 4 hours after eating pufferfish
- Paresthesias
- Headache
- Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
- Ascending paralysis
- Respiratory failure
- Death
Differential Diagnosis
Evaluation
- Pufferfish can be tested for the toxin, but decision to treat should be based on clinical picture
- Evaluate for other treatable causes of symptoms
Management
- Supportive care, intubate if concern for progressive paralysis
- Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (e.g. neostigmine)[1]
Disposition
- Admit, may need ICU
See Also
External Links
References
- ↑ Tintanelli's