An efficient protocol for avoid sequelae over stingray sting injury

Abstract

The artificial reservoir at Luiz Eduardo Magalhaes hydroelectric power plant, Tocantins River, is one of the most beautiful sceneries in Brazilian Amazon. The reservoir has clean, calm and warm water, being an inviting place to the practice of aquatic sports and recreation. This ecosystem is located in the Amazon region, where biodiversity is remarkable, including organisms that may cause harm to humans. The reservoir, for example, provides adequate environments to alligators, piranhas and poisoned stingrays. Although alligator’s attacks are very rare, piranha bites and stingrays stings are frequent. The reservoir is populated with several species of piranhas (e.g. Serrassalmus, Pygocentrus) and stingrays (e.g. Potamotrygon), 1 which are very abundant in shallow littoral areas, including sandy beaches used by local people and tourists. Piranha attacks usually cause small wounds, but stingrays may provoke serious injuries. Usually, the lesions caused by stingrays are very painful and involve edema and necrosis by poison 2,3. There is also risk of severe secondary infection by microbial population related to stingray's mucus. 4 Frequently, the injuries are compounded because the injured individual is not given proper first aids and does not seek medical help for appropriated care. 5 Thus, the total remission of symptoms can take months. The scientific literature and medical records describes many complex cases.