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A new hazard for windsurfers: needlefish impalement.
K W Link1, F L Counselman, J Steele
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School and Emergency Physicians of Tidewater, Norfolk 23507, USA.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|April 9, 1999
Summary
Needlefish injuries, rare on the Atlantic coast, involve penetrating wounds requiring prompt medical care. Treatment focuses on resuscitation and antibiotics targeting marine-specific infections.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Dermatology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Marine-related injuries and envenomations pose a significant challenge to coastal healthcare providers.
- Needlefish (Belonidae family) are known for causing penetrating injuries, predominantly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Observation:
- This case report details a rare instance of a needlefish-inflicted penetrating injury to the lower extremity.
- The injury occurred along the Atlantic seaboard, an area not previously documented for such incidents.
Findings:
- The case highlights the need for heightened awareness of needlefish as a potential hazard in new geographical areas.
- Standard medical protocols, including resuscitation and targeted antibiotic therapy, are crucial for managing these injuries.
Implications:
- This report expands the known geographical distribution of needlefish-related injuries.
- It underscores the importance of considering marine-specific pathogens in wound management for coastal injuries.