Paralytic shellfish poisoning
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2008-07-08T18:53:01Z
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'''Paralytic shellfish poisoning''' (PSP) is one of the four recognized syndromes of [[shellfish poisoning]] (the others being [[neurotoxic shellfish poisoning]], [[diarrhetic shellfish poisoning]] and [[amnesic shellfish poisoning]]). All four syndromes share some common features and are primarily associated with [[Bivalvia|bivalve molluscs]] (such as [[mussel]]s, [[clam]]s, [[oyster]]s and [[scallop]]s). These shellfish are [[filter feeder]]s and, therefore, accumulate [[toxin]]s produced by microscopic [[alga]]e, such as [[dinoflagellate]]s and [[diatom]]s, and [[cyanobacteria]].
=== Pathophysiology ===
The toxins responsible for most shellfish poisonings are water-soluble, heat and acid-stable, and are not inactivated by ordinary cooking methods. The main toxin responsible for PSP is principally [[saxitoxin]], but in their bodies. Most shellfish only store this toxin for six weeks after a red tide passes, but some such as [[butterclam]]s are known to store the toxin for up to two years.
PSP can be fatal in extreme cases (particularly in those who are already immuno-suppressed). Children are more susceptible. PSP affects those who come into contact with the affected shellfish by ingestion. Ten to thirty minutes after ingestion, symptoms can include [[nausea]], [[vomiting]], [[diarrhea]], abdominal pain, and tingling or burning lips, gums, tongue, face, neck, arms, legs, and toes. Shortness of breath, dry mouth, a choking feeling, confused or slurred speech, and lack of coordination are also possible.
== See also ==
* [[Harmful algal bloom]]
* [[Cyanotoxin]]
* [[Algal bloom]] (see "toxic chemicals" in paragraph 3)
* [[Ciguatera]]
* [[Dinoflagellate]] (see "neurotoxins" and "red tide" under [[dinoflagellate#Ecology and fossils|Ecology and fossils]] and see "phosphate" under [[dinoflagellate#Cautions|Cautions]])
* [[Red tide]]
== External links ==
* [http://www.emedicine.com/EMERG/topic528.htm Toxicity, Shellfish]
{{Poisoning and toxicity}}
[[Category:Seafood]]
[[Category:Medical emergencies]]
[[Category:Foodborne illnesses]]
[[zh:麻痺性貝類中毒]]