A Non‐fatal Case of Blue‐ringed Octopus Bite

The clinical features of a non-fatal case of blue-ringed octopus bite are recorded. This toxin did not produce a complete curariform paralysis with respiratory failure, and the symptoms were as follows: (i) a light headed, dizzy feeling; (ii) weakness and exhaustion within ten minutes, followed by nausea; (iii) generalized muscular jerking and spasms, every few minutes and lasting six hours; (iv) a diminution of the local anæsthetic effect of the bite was followed by a sharp stinging sensation. This occurred within 30 minutes. A serous discharge was noted from the wound, after approximately two hours. The stinging lasted a little over six hours and was of moderate intensity; (v) an allergic reaction to the bite was noted in the patient, who was already known to have marine allergies.