A case of severe stinging caused by venomous marine animal, “Portuguese man of war” (Physalia species) in all probability

Abstract

There are about 150 million jellyfish stings every year. “Portuguese man of war” is responsible for substantial proportion of stings worldwide. The biggest risk from a jellyfish stings may come from incorrect management. A 42-year-old woman was severely stung by venomous marine animal while bathing in waters of the Thai Gulf. It was most likely “Portuguese man of war”. The patient didn’t remember while being rescued. Looking at damages it seems that first aid was incorrect. Inappropriate and delayed management caused disfiguring scars. On the ground of this case, first aid for ”Portuguese man of war” stings is reminded.