Search

Envenomation by marine animals poses a significant health concern globally, affecting both local residents and tourists in coastal regions. The primary objective of this review is to critically evaluate the existing scientific literature to determine the most effective first-aid treatment for envenomations caused by marine animals, specifically whether hot-water immersion (HWI) or ice-pack treatment (IPT) provides the best immediate care. This comprehensive review covers a wide range of marine envenomations, from jellyfish stings to stingray injuries. While our focus is primarily on the efficacy of HWI and IPT, we also explore the role of cold-water treatment as a result of its relevance and similarity to ice-pack applications. In addition, we examine other treatments mentioned in the literature, such as medications or vinegar, and highlight their findings where applicable. To provide a clear and structured overview, we summarised the articles in separate tables. These tables categorise the type of research conducted, the marine species studied, the region of origin of the marine species, and the key findings of each study. Our analysis of the available evidence indicates a general consensus in the scientific community on the effectiveness of HWI or IPT for envenomation by marine animals. However, when treating those injuries, it is crucial to consider all factors since there is no universally superior treatment due to the diverse nature of marine habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and aim. The Rh blood group system consists of at least 61 independent antigens. It was first described in 1939 and has since played a key role in blood group differentiation. The classical division distinguishes Rh+ and Rh- groups, however, an atypical phenotype known as Rhnull is also present, which is associated with the formation of all-antibodies on contact with Rh antigens, which can pose a significant problem in patients who have it and require blood transfusions. Material and methods. Four case reports and one review paper were used. The articles are from 1992-2020. PubMed and Google Scholar databases were used. Key words used in the search were blood transfusion, golden blood and Rhnull. Analysis of literature. The Rhnull blood phenotype (also called "golden blood") is a rare blood type with a prevalence of about 1 in 6 million people. To date, at least 43 individuals belonging to 14 families with the Rhnull phenotype are known, with reports in the literature up to 2018. A mutation in the RHCE gene is most often responsible for its formation. The characteristic feature of "golden blood" is the absence of all Rh antigens on red blood cells. Previous reports indicate its role in the development of hemolytic anemia secondary to a defect in the erythrocyte cell membrane. Conclusion. The presence of rare blood phenotypes can pose a significant problem in the process of blood transfusion in patients. Blood marriages, common in eastern countries and Africa, play an important role in the formation of the Rhnull phenotype, which is more common there compared to other regions of the world. Further genetic studies are needed to find the mutations underlying the development of Rh group incompatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]