Contents

SynopsisCodesLook ForDiagnostic PearlsDifferential Diagnosis & PitfallsBest TestsManagement PearlsTherapyReferences

View all Images (6)

Barracuda bite
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Barracuda bite

Contributors: Robert Norris MD, Joanne Feldman MD, MS
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Barracuda are large, fast-swimming fish with long, razor-sharp, canine-like teeth in both jaws. They can grow up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length and weigh up to 50 kg (110 pounds). There are 22 species of barracuda that inhabit the tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. Only one species, the great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), is dangerous to humans.

Barracuda bites are rare and often occur in waters with bad visibility when shiny jewelry, barrettes, brightly colored objects, and camera equipment may be mistaken for prey. Barracuda bites have also occurred after the fish has been speared or caught on a fishing line.

Barracuda bites can cause deep, slashing cuts. Damage to nerves, tendons, and large blood vessels is not uncommon. Significant tissue loss may occur. Barracuda teeth can break off inside wounds.

Bacterial contamination of wounds with marine pathogens such as Vibrio and Aeromonas is common.

Codes

ICD10CM:
W56.51XA – Bitten by other fish, initial encounter

SNOMEDCT:
283837005 – Fish bite wound

Look For

Subscription Required

Diagnostic Pearls

Subscription Required

Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls

To perform a comparison, select diagnoses from the classic differential

Subscription Required

Best Tests

Subscription Required

Management Pearls

Subscription Required

Therapy

Subscription Required

References

Subscription Required

Last Updated:10/18/2017
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.
Barracuda bite
A medical illustration showing key findings of Barracuda bite : Fish bite, Ocean swimming
Organism image of Barracuda bite - imageId=3394636. Click to open in gallery.  caption: 'Great barracuda (<i>Sphyraena barracuda</i>), Cayman Brac, British Virgin Islands.'
Great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), Cayman Brac, British Virgin Islands.
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.