Jellyfish dermatitis

Abstract

Jellyfish belongs to the phylum Cnidaria. The manifestation of jellyfish envenomation ranges from simple cutaneous eruption to fatal cardiac or respiratory failure. Based on the class of jellyfish the presentation varies, Hydrozoa produces a linear erythematous eruption, Cubozoa produces large wheals with a cross-hatched or frosted-ladder pattern, and Scyphozoa produces raised red welts in zigzag/whip-like pattern. Envenomation includes (1) immediate allergic type, (2) immediate toxic type, and (3) delayed allergic type. Here, we are presenting a case series of jellyfish sting, patients presented with erythematous plaque and papules in varied patterns associated with pain. There were no systemic symptoms. The surge in jellyfish population and potentially fatal outcomes imposes the need to understand the presentation, prevention, and management of Jellyfish sting.

Keywords

• cardiotoxic
• cnidaria
• cross-hatched pattern
• jellyfish