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Updated: Jun 18, 2025

A Protocol for Bioinspired Design: A Ground Sampler Based on Sea Urchin Jaws
Published on: April 24, 2016
Aquatic Antagonists: Dermatologic Injuries From Sea Urchins (Echinoidea).
Caroline J Brailsford1, Dirk M Elston1
1Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston. Dr. Brailsford is from the College of Medicine, and Dr. Elston is from the Department of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery.
Sea urchin spine injuries cause pain and redness. Prompt spine removal prevents serious complications like infections and arthritis, though removal can be challenging.
Area of Science:
- Marine toxicology
- Dermatology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Sea urchin injuries are frequent, presenting with immediate pain, erythema, and myalgia.
- Incomplete spine removal can lead to delayed systemic reactions, secondary infections, granulomas, and joint inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To raise awareness of the diverse complications associated with sea urchin injuries.
- To outline effective methods for complete sea urchin spine removal.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on sea urchin envenomation and treatment.
- Analysis of clinical manifestations and pathological outcomes.
- Compilation of recommended spine removal techniques.
Main Results:
- Immediate symptoms include local inflammation and pain.
- Delayed complications encompass infections, granulomas, and arthritis.
- Successful management hinges on thorough and timely spine extraction.
Conclusions:
- Early and complete removal of sea urchin spines is crucial for preventing severe complications.
- Understanding potential sequelae guides effective clinical management of sea urchin injuries.
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