Wilderness: Fish-Handler's Disease

Adult Skin Problems Slideshow Pictures Gallery of Skin Problems and Image Collection

• Fish-Handler's Disease Overview
• Fish-Handler's Disease Symptoms
• Fish-Handler's Disease Treatment
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Fish-Handler's Disease Overview

Fish-handler's disease occurs when cuts or scrapes in the skin become infected with the bacteria Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. Handling and preparing fish and shellfish can create small cuts and scrapes in the skin, where bacteria may enter. Developing fish-handler's disease requires deliberate contact with fish, particularly lobster and other shellfish. Fish-handler’s disease occurs worldwide wherever fish and shellfish are handled.