Paralytic shellfish poisoning

Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) is a serious illness caused by consuming shellfish contaminated with dinoflagellate algae that produce harmful toxins. These toxins can cause paralysis and even death in humans.

Causes

PSP is primarily caused by the consumption of shellfish that have ingested the marine dinoflagellate algae, Alexandrium spp., Gymnodinium catenatum, and Pyrodinium bahamense. These algae produce a group of neurotoxins known as saxitoxins.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PSP can occur within minutes to hours after consuming contaminated shellfish. Initial symptoms often include tingling of the lips and tongue, which may begin to spread to the face and neck. Paralysis and respiratory failure can occur in severe cases, leading to death.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of PSP is typically based on the patient's symptoms and recent dietary history. Laboratory testing can be done to detect the presence of saxitoxins in the patient's blood or in leftover food.

Treatment

There is no specific antidote for PSP. Treatment is supportive and aims to manage symptoms. This may include respiratory support in severe cases.

Prevention

Prevention of PSP involves monitoring of shellfish and water for the presence of harmful algae and toxins. Public health advisories and closures of shellfish beds are often implemented during harmful algal blooms to prevent human exposure to the toxins.

See also

• Shellfish poisoning
• Harmful algal bloom
• Saxitoxin
• Dinoflagellate