Bristleworm Sting

1. First Aid Essentials Slideshow Pictures
2. First Aid Bandaging Injuries Slideshow Pictures
3. First Aid Sprains & Strains Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Scott D. Fell, DO, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD

Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD

Dr. Charles "Pat" Davis, MD, PhD, is a board certified Emergency Medicine doctor who currently practices as a consultant and staff member for hospitals. He has a PhD in Microbiology (UT at Austin), and the MD (Univ. Texas Medical Branch, Galveston). He is a Clinical Professor (retired) in the Division of Emergency Medicine, UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, and has been the Chief of Emergency Medicine at UT Medical Branch and at UTHSCSA with over 250 publications.

View Full Profile

• Bristleworm Sting Overview
• Bristleworm Sting Symptoms
• Bristleworm Sting Treatment
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Bristleworm Pictures
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Author and Editor

Of the many species of worms, the bristleworm is one of the most dangerous. Bristleworms are elongated segmented worms and belong to the phylum of Annelid worms, class Polychaeta. They can grow up to 1 foot in length (30 cm) and a width of 1 inch (2.54 cm). Each segment contains a pair of bristles. Although bristleworms are not aggressive, they may bite when handled, and the bristles or spines (termed chaetea) can penetrate skin (sting when touched). The spines penetrate the skin like cactus spines and can be difficult to remove, and usually cause the most symptoms listed below. Use heavy gloves if handling these worms is necessary. Bristleworms are often found in tidal waters under rocks and corals in tropical areas throughout the world. Over 10,000 species of bristleworms (Polychaeta) have been identified.

The bristleworm spines when touched can sting and cause:

• pain,
• burning sensation,
• redness,
• swelling, and
• a rash.

The spines do not have any associated venom producing cells so there is no fear of additional "venom" being released with removal of the spines.

Must Read Articles Related to Wilderness: Bristleworm Sting

Cuts or Lacerations A cut refers to a skin wound with separation of the connective tissue elements. Unlike an abrasion (a wound caused by friction or scraping), none of the skin is...learn more >>

Puncture Wound A puncture wound is caused by an object piercing the skin such as nails, glass, pins, or other sharp objects. A puncture wound can become infected if not treate...learn more >>

Wilderness: Marine Bite Fish and other marine animals can bite and cause cuts, scrapes, and punctures. A person who is attacked or bitten should attempt to identify the type of fish or...learn more >>

See the Entire Wilderness: Bristleworm Sting Topic Guide »