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The antibody response in seabather's eruption
J W Burnett1, S Kumar, J M Malecki
1Department of Dermatology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore 21201, USA.
Summary
Specific IgG antibodies against thimble jelly (Linuche unguilata) were found in most seabather's eruption patients. This finding, detected via ELISA, can help confirm the clinical diagnosis of this jellyfish sting.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Marine Biology
Background:
- Seabather's eruption is a common dermatitis caused by jellyfish larvae.
- Diagnosis is often clinical, lacking specific laboratory confirmation.
- Linuche unguilata (thimble jelly) is a suspected causative agent in affected regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify specific antibodies related to seabather's eruption.
- To evaluate the utility of a serological assay for diagnosis.
- To correlate antibody presence with clinical presentation and geographic origin.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was used to detect specific IgG antibodies.
- Patient serum samples, including those stored for up to 10 years, were analyzed.
- Antibody titers were correlated with the extent of cutaneous eruption and sting severity.
Main Results:
- Specific IgG antibodies against Linuche unguilata antigen were detected in 36 out of 44 patients (81.8%).
- Antibodies were identified in serum samples up to 10 years old, indicating long-term immune response.
- A correlation was observed between antibody titer and the severity of the eruption and sting.
- Antibodies were found in patients from Florida, the Bahamas, and Aruba, consistent with the jellyfish's habitat.
Conclusions:
- The presence of specific IgG antibodies against Linuche unguilata supports its role in seabather's eruption.
- ELISA is a viable method for detecting these antibodies, even in long-stored serum.
- This serological assay can serve as a valuable tool for confirming the clinical diagnosis of seabather's eruption.