All catfish, except members of Malapteruridae (electric catfish), possess a strong, hollow, bonified leading spine-like ray on their dorsal and pectoral fins. As a defense, these spines may be locked into place so that they stick outwards, which can inflict severe wounds.In several species catfish can use these fin rays to deliver a stinging protein if the fish is irritated.This venom is produced byglandular cells in the epidermal tissue covering the spines.In members of the family Plotosidae, and of the genus Heteropneustes, this protein is so strong it may hospitalize humans, those unfortunate enough to receive a sting; in Plotosus lineatus, the stings may result in death
Cat fish injuries
severe pain, tissue swelling and redness , muscle spasm and respiratory distress may occur
Clinical sign and symptom
Treatment
•Most of protein of venom are extremely labile and inactivated by heating
•Immerse the affected area in water as hot as is tolerable usually relieves pain from a sting.
•Spines should be removed
•The wound should be scrubbed and irrigated with fresh water.
•Oral antibiotics if infected.
•Suture if wound large lacerated
•Update anti tetanus
•Analgesic
•Supportive treatment if systemic reaction occur