Treatment for Frog Toxin Exposure
The immediate treatment for frog toxin exposure should focus on decontamination with copious water irrigation for 15 minutes, followed by supportive care and monitoring for systemic effects. 1
Initial Management
- Remove all contaminated clothing and avoid self-contamination when handling the patient 2, 3
- For skin exposure to frog toxin, wash the affected area with large amounts of water to dilute and remove the toxin 2
- For eye exposure, immediately irrigate with copious amounts of tap water for at least 15 minutes to minimize eye damage 1
- When performing irrigation, take care to avoid contaminating unaffected areas, other individuals, or surrounding areas 1
- Do not give anything by mouth unless advised by poison control or emergency medical personnel 2, 3
Supportive Care
- Manage airway, breathing, and circulation according to standard protocols 3
- Early endotracheal intubation is recommended for patients with respiratory distress or decreased level of consciousness 3
- Monitor for signs of systemic toxicity, which may include:
Special Considerations for Different Frog Toxins
- Kambo frog (Phyllomedusa bicolor) toxin can cause severe vomiting, hyponatremia, and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) 4, 6
- Toad toxins (Bufo species) may cause cardiac glycoside-like effects requiring cardiac monitoring 5
- For venomous frogs with delivery mechanisms (e.g., bony skull spines), treat as a venomous injury rather than simple poisoning 7
Advanced Management
- Contact regional poison centers immediately for expert advice on management of specific frog toxin exposures 1, 2
- For severe cases with cardiac effects, consider treatment similar to cardiac glycoside toxicity 5
- For hyponatremia secondary to frog toxin exposure, careful sodium correction is necessary 6
- For rhabdomyolysis (which may occur secondary to seizures), provide volume expansion and consider bicarbonate infusion 6
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Delaying decontamination - immediate irrigation is critical to minimize tissue damage 1
- Failing to monitor for delayed systemic effects, which can occur hours after exposure 6
- Underestimating the potential severity of frog toxin exposure, which can be life-threatening 4, 7
- Cross-contaminating unaffected areas during treatment 1