What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Sting of the Cone Snail

What is Cone Snail Sting? (Definition/Background Information)

• The cone snail is a venomous sea snail that reaches up to 20 cm in length. It is a predatory animal that resides among the coral reefs (bottom dweller). The tropical waters of the Indian and Pacific oceans are its main habitat
• It is a very slow creature, and hence, relies on its highly potent harpoon-like sting to paralyze and kill its prey (often fish), before they swim away. Almost all cone snails are harmful to humans, but the geographic cone snail is one of the most venomous marine creatures
• Cone snails generally reside at the bottom of the ocean and capture prey (fish and crabs) through camouflage or by staying buried. They are known as ambush predators. Some cone snails reside in shallow waters
• Many cone snails have attractive, brightly-colored shells making them a collector’s item. They are sought after as living ornamental inhabitants for artificial marine aquariums. However, their venom is fast-acting and can cause delirium and paralysis in a short period of time
• Contact with humans occurs mostly during sea diving (accidently), while hunting for these cones, or while cleaning tanks. Cone snail do not attack humans, but can inflict painful stings with the release of a potent venom when they are handled
• Some Cone Snail Stings may have mild symptoms, while others have severe symptoms. The severity of signs and symptoms depends on the species of cone snail, the amount of toxin injected, and also on the reaction of the human body to the toxin
• Immediate medical attention has to be sought in case of severe stings. The treatment would involve removal of the sting, washing the affected area, and use of medications (topical antibiotics and painkillers). The prognosis is generally good with treatment in a majority of cases

Who gets Cone Snail Sting? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Any individual exposed to cone snail are vulnerable to its sting
• Both males and females are affected and there is no gender bias observed
• Cone snails are marine creatures that are found all over the world. Different species are found in different parts of the world, but the major geographic locations include the Indo-Pacific oceanic region, the Mediterranean region, South Africa, and parts of California

What are the Risk Factors for Cone Snail Sting? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors identified for Cone Snail Stings include:

• Deep sea divers
• Wading in ocean waters without suitable protective clothing
• Picking up cone snails with bare hands
• Walking barefoot on the beach or in shallow sea water
• Keeping them as pets in aquariums (exotic collection)
• Handling dead or live cone snail species

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Cone Snail Sting? (Etiology)

• Cone Snail Stings release a poisonous chemical into the human skin through their spine, which can affect the human body
• Depending on the amount of poison injected, the severity of the signs and symptoms is dictated

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cone Snail Sting?

The severity of signs and symptoms of Cone Snail Sting depends on the following factors:

• The type or species of cone snail
• The amount of toxin injected
• The reaction of the human body to the toxin

The signs and symptoms of Cone Snail Sting may be mild or severe. The reaction to the toxin may occur immediately or even after a few days (in some cases). The signs and symptoms may include:

• Severe stinging pain lasting for several hours; mild stings may present similar features like a bee sting
• Skin rashes, burning sensation
• Swelling of the wound, bluish discoloration around the puncture site
• Tingling and numbness in the extremity
• Itching
• Headaches
• Breathing difficulties
• Muscle paralysis
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Reduced or blurred vision
• Difficulty in speaking
• Severe fatigue
• Unconsciousness

How is Cone Snail Sting Diagnosed?

A Cone Snail Sting is diagnosed through the following tools:

• A physical examination of the affected site by the physician is normally sufficient to diagnose the condition
• In addition, the symptoms exhibited by the individual may be carefully observed
• The individual may be asked to provide an account (history) of the events that occurred (what took place and how)
• Blood tests consisting of complete blood count (CBC) and electrolytes

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Cone Snail Sting?

The complications that may arise from a Cone Snail Sting may include:

• Bleeding and skin ulceration can cause secondary bacterial or fungal infections to develop
• Anaphylaxis type allergic reaction
• Heart failure
• Respiratory distress
• Delirium and shock
• Severe paralysis of the muscles

Cone Snail Stings are known to result in fatalities.

How is Cone Snail Sting Treated?

The treatment measures for Cone Snail Sting may include:

• The use of very hot water can help reduce the potency of the venom, and hence, the wound is soaked for up to an hour in hot water. This can also help reduce the pain intensity
• Immobilization of the affected site (arm or leg) using pressure bandage
• Topical antiseptics may help prevent wound infection
• Pain relieving medications (acetaminophen) as required
• Tetanus vaccination is usually required, if it is not up to date
• In case of severe stings, it could be a medical emergency and prompt attention has to be provided. The treatment measures may include:
  • CPR may be provided as necessary, breathing assistance
  • Stabilizing the blood pressure
• Proper follow-up care and check-ups may be required, especially to monitor for any signs of infection

Note: It is always important to call the local emergency helpline number (911 in the US) without any delay.

How can Cone Snail Sting be Prevented?

The following factors may be considered to reduce the incidence of Cone Snail Stings:

• Do not ignore warnings of lifeguards or health officials at the beach
• Avoid making an attempt to touch or handle marine animals unnecessarily
• Wear protective clothing if you plan to swim or dive in infested areas (suitable wet skin or diver’s suit)
• Generally be aware or watchful of the waters you are in (to the extent possible)
• Wear protective footwear while walking on beach sand
• Ensure safety precautions while cleaning marine animal aquariums; wear gloves
• Marine life explorers and sea adventurers are required to carry marine first aid kit

Note: Currently, there is no anti-venom available for Cone Snail Stings.

What is the Prognosis of Cone Snail Sting? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Cone Snail Sting is generally good with effective treatment, since a majority of the cases are mild
• However, severe stings combined with delayed treatment may be life-threatening or can even result in death

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Cone Snail Sting:

The cone snail hunts by burying itself in the sand and harpoons unwary prey that passes by.