Coral CutsMedical Author:
Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM
Medical Editor:
Ivette Motola, MD
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
James Kimo Takayesu, MD
Coral Cuts OverviewCorals are animals that have calcified outer skeletons with sharp edges. Coral formations occur in tropical and subtropical waters. Because coral formations are rigid and sharp, injury can occur after accidental contact, leaving a small amount of animal protein and calcareous material in the wound. The small, harmless-appearing cut may quickly develop into an infected wound. Some corals contain nematocysts, which can produce a more significant injury (see Jellyfish Stings and Fire Coral Cuts). |
Women's Health
Find out what women really need.
From WebMD
First Aid Resources
Featured Centers
- Ask the Nutritionist: Weight Loss Tips
- Which Drugstore Tooth Whiteners Work Best?
- Gout: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape
Cnidaria Envenomation »
Cnidaria (formerly Coelenterata) are in the phylum of aquatic invertebrates responsible for more envenomations than any other marine phylum.
Featured Topics
Medical Dictionary
Pill Identifier on RxList
- quick,
easy,
pill identification
Find a Local Pharmacy
- including
24 hour
pharmacies

