Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning is caused by which toxin?

Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning is caused by which toxin?

• A. Scombrotoxin
• B. Shigella
• C. Salmonella
• D. Saxitoxin

Answer: (D)

Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning is caused by a potent neurotoxin called saxitoxin. This toxin is produced by certain algae and concentrates in shellfish that filter-feed on them. Saxitoxin blocks voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve and muscle cells, preventing nerve signals from propagating and leading to numbness, tingling, dizziness, and potentially paralysis. The other items are different types of threats: scombrotoxin is histamine-related poisoning from spoiled fish, while Shigella and Salmonella are bacteria that cause gastroenteritis. Therefore, saxitoxin is the toxin responsible for Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning.

Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning is caused by a potent neurotoxin called saxitoxin. This toxin is produced by certain algae and concentrates in shellfish that filter-feed on them. Saxitoxin blocks voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve and muscle cells, preventing nerve signals from propagating and leading to numbness, tingling, dizziness, and potentially paralysis. The other items are different types of threats: scombrotoxin is histamine-related poisoning from spoiled fish, while Shigella and Salmonella are bacteria that cause gastroenteritis. Therefore, saxitoxin is the toxin responsible for Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning.