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In 1998, we diagnosed the first case of domoic acid toxicity
in marine mammals. Domoic acid, a biotoxin released by Pseudo
nitzchia australis, has caused deaths of people on the east
coast of Canada who ingested affected shellfish. Health departments
in the U.S. regularly monitor shellfish for toxins. However,
in this case, shellfish had not yet shown signs of the toxin
and the sea lions sent out an early warning of the presence
of this Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) or red tide.
 Since
that year, events diagnosed as domoic acid toxicity have occurred
in 2000 and 2001. Studies have shown increased HAB activity
in U.S. waters. Treatment involves supportive care as well
as control of seizures using agents such as phenobarbital,
diazepam, and lorazepam. Fluids are administered subcutaneously
to hydrate the animal and maintain otherwise normal body function.
In 2000, over 170 animals were diagnosed with domoic acid
poisoning and, because The Center is now able to quickly identify
the problem and begin care, the survival rate rose to approximately
65%.
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Biotoxin
Poisoning