Injuries caused by freshwater stingrays in the Tapajós River Basin: a clinical and sociodemographic study

Abstract

Freshwater stingray injuries, which should be considered occupational injuries, are common in the study area, especially in places like beaches or in the lakes that form during the dry season, when stingrays are routinely observed. A significant proportion of respondents was unaware of the correct first aid measures and had insufficient resources to treat the complications of these injuries in the locality where they reside. Interactive activities involving local residents - such as lectures and the distribution of simple pamphlets providing information about stingray injuries - are needed.

Pseudoaneurysm following a freshwater stingray injury

“…In the Brazilian Amazon, stingrays of the Potamotrygonidae family are the most frequent agents of animal-induced aquatic injuries. 2 A picture of a Potamotrygon hystrix is presented in Figure 2, with its tail and stinger. Most injuries happen during the dry season, usually on sandy terrains bordering muddy waters.…”

“…Most injuries happen during the dry season, usually on sandy terrains bordering muddy waters. 2 Fishermen are the most exposed profession. The first symptoms include intense pain and local oedema.…”

“…The first symptoms include intense pain and local oedema. 2,3 As treatment, most authors agree that hot water immersion is useful by its activity against thermolabile venoms and vasodilatation. 4 Our patient did not benefit from immersion in hot water when he was seen in the Emergency Department and was given corticosteroids, which have no indication in stingray injury.…”

“…Ulcers can appear in late stages of stingray injuries. 2 Among the complications, tetanus, 5 skin infections 2,4 and necrosis have been reported. Severe presentations are usually caused by thoracic, spinal or neck trauma.…”

“…Blaizot, 1,2, * G.Desrousseaux, 3 M.-P. Joly, 3 A. Vie, 4 X. Lu, 5 A. Senchyna, 4 K. Oganov, 6 C. Marty, 7 H. Ciss e, 1 P. Couppie 1,2…”