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Catfish spine envenomation: a case of delayed presentation
Nadeem Ajmal1, Lillian B Nanney, Sean F Wolfort
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
Wilderness & Environmental Medicine
|June 27, 2003
Summary
Catfish spine injuries can cause severe hand issues and bacterial infections. This case highlights a rare, delayed presentation of chronic tenosynovitis from a catfish "finning" wound.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Catfish spine envenomations are known to cause acute hand injuries.
- Bacterial infections are a common complication of puncture wounds.
- Early diagnosis and treatment typically lead to resolution within 3 months.
Observation:
- This report details a unique case of a markedly delayed presentation of a catfish "finning" injury.
- The patient developed chronic tenosynovitis in the hand.
- Delayed diagnosis of the offending organism and potential foreign bodies can occur.
Findings:
- Catfish spine injuries can lead to severe, long-term complications like chronic tenosynovitis.
- Identifying the causative organism can be challenging, potentially delaying appropriate treatment.
- A high index of suspicion is crucial for diagnosing less common presentations.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider delayed complications from catfish envenomations, even months after the initial injury.
- Prompt and thorough evaluation is necessary to identify and treat infections and foreign bodies.
- This case underscores the importance of comprehensive literature review and updated treatment guidelines for managing complex envenomations.