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

• Moray Eel Injury

What is Moray Eel Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The moray eel is a nocturnal creature that appears like a snake with a fearsome mouth and large eyes. Moray eels are a species of eels that belong to fish family, inhabiting saltwater and freshwater (sometimes). They can reach lengths of 3-4 meters
• This shy creature normally hides in rocky crevices or between coral reefs. Moray eels have two sets of sharp teeth; one in the jaw and the other at the back of the throat. They mainly feed on fish and other small animals
• Contact with humans occurs accidentally (divers and snorkelers) or intentionally, when moray eels are ‘hand fed’. Moray eels are not aggressive animals, but are territorial and will attack in self-defense. Their bites are relatively non-toxic, but may result in an infection if left untreated
• Moray Eel Bites can result in laceration or even the loss of a digit (finger or toe). Their powerful bites with double set of teeth can make it difficult to extract the bitten arm or leg; pulling back the limb can result in more painful skin, flesh, and bone injuries
• Immediate medical attention has to be sought in case of severe bites. The treatment would include washing the affected area, attending to local wounds, and use of medications (topical antibiotics and painkillers). The prognosis is generally good with treatment

Who gets Moray Eel Bite? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Any individual exposed to a moray eel is vulnerable to be bitten
• Both males and females are affected and there is no gender bias observed
• Moray eels are marine creatures found all over the world. Different species are found in different parts of the world

What are the Risk Factors for Moray Eel Bite? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors identified for Moray Eel Bites include:

• Deep sea divers
• Coral reef divers
• Keeping them as pets in aquariums
• Handling these creatures, hand-feeding them

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 Moray Eel Bite? (Etiology)

• Moray Eel Bites can inflict serious skin, tissue, and bone injuries; these marine animals are known to snap at individuals on provocation
• Besides, since their eyesight is poor, they usually confuse between the ‘feed’ and the hand that feeds them

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Moray Eel Bite?

Generally, the larger the species of moray eel, the greater is the severity of the bite. The signs and symptoms of Moray Eel Bites may include:

• Local injury, cuts, gashes, and laceration; usually on the arms (hands, fingers) or legs
• Presence of several bite marks (a row of teeth marks may be visible)
• Puncture wounds with severe bleeding
• Pain (that can be intense)
• Swelling of the area
• Temporary loss of function in the affected limb

How is Moray Eel Bite Diagnosed?

A Moray Eel Bite 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)
• X-rays or CT scans of the affected region
• 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 Moray Eel Bite?

The complications that may arise from a Moray Eel Bite may include:

• Anaphylaxis type allergic reaction
• Bleeding and skin ulceration can cause secondary bacterial or fungal infections to develop
• Scarring of skin at affected area
• Loss of finger or toe (or severe bite requiring amputation of the injured digit)
• Bites to the face can result in very serious injuries
• The vice-like grip of a moray eel may lead to a near-drowning situation underwater, if the victim panics and is unable to release his/her arm or leg

How is Moray Eel Bite Treated?

The treatment measures for Moray Eel Bite may include:

• Wound care
  • Immediately arresting the bleeding
  • Removal of any broken teeth from the wound
  • The affected area is washed with soap and water
  • Application of topical antibiotics to prevent infection
  • Bandaging (sterile dressing) the area, as required
  • Sutures may be required in some cases
• Surgical removal of severely injured finger or toe
• Pain relieving medications as required
• Administration of oral antibiotics
• Tetanus vaccination is usually required, if it is not up to date
• In case of severe bites, it could be a medical emergency and prompt attention has to be provided
• 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 Moray Eel Bite be Prevented?

The following factors may be considered to reduce the incidence of Moray Eel Bites:

• Ensure safety precautions while cleaning marine animal aquariums; wear gloves and protective suit
• Avoid any direct hand-feeding these eels
• Avoid trying to grab or pull other marine creatures (animals or plants) from dark crevices, rocky nooks, or holes. Moray eels are known to hide in such areas in order to ambush capture their prey
• Do not ignore warnings of lifeguards or health officials at the beach
• Wear protective clothing if you plan to swim or dive in infested areas (especially while exploring underwater caves, rocky terrains, and coral reefs)
• Generally be aware or watchful of the waters you are in (to the extent possible)
• Marine life explorers and sea adventurers are required to carry marine first aid kit

What is the Prognosis of Moray Eel Bite? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Moray Eel Bite is generally good with effective treatment
• Severe bites may result in the loss of a finger (such as a thumb) or toe

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Moray Eel Bite:

• In order to get one’s arm or leg released from the jaws of the moray eel, it is best to tempt it with a food morsel (such as fish), or otherwise use a stick to divert its attack
• The moray eels do not discharge an electric shock unlike many other eels