There are no confirmed cases of DSP in the U.S.
Algal Species (found in the Gulf of Mexico) that cause DSP
Dinophysis species
For example: D. acuminata and D. caudata
Prorocentrum species
For example: P. lima and P. hoffmanianum (image)
Toxins
Okadaic acid
Pectenotoxins
Dinophysistoxins
Human Symptoms/Illnesses
Symptoms appear within 30 minutes-12 hours (average incubation is 4 hours)
Symptoms disappear within 3 days
Factors Affecting Degree of Toxicity
Amount of toxin ingested
Transformation of toxins
Rate of toxin elimination
Diagnosis
Consumption of seafood before sickness
Can examine food specimen
Symptoms
Vomiting
Abdominal cramps/pain
Diarrhea
Chills
Nausea
Seafood Associated with DSP
Scallops (digestive gland)
Mussels (digestive gland)
Short-necked clams (digestive gland)
DSP Cases in the U.S.
No cases confirmed in U.S. (except an unconfirmed case in New York)
Most cases have occurred in Japan and Europe
DSP Cases in the Gulf of Mexico
None
Persons with Disabilities