Scombroid fish poisoning is an acute illness that develops when a spoiled fish containing high levels of histamine is consumed. The high histamine levels are produced via bacterial enzyme conversion of histidine in the fish to scrombotoxin when the fish is stored at an insufficiently cold temperature. The main component of scrombotoxin is histamine, which is responsible for the consequent signs and symptoms. Cooking does not reverse the harmful effect of the decomposing scombroid fish; the levels of histamine remain high. Histamine toxicity predominantly affects the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems.
Fish typically associated with this type of reaction include scombroid fish, ie, fish having dark meat such as tuna, mackerel, and bonito. Other fish that do not have dark meat (nonscombroid fish) but that have also been implicated are mahi mahi, salmon, sardines, and bluefish.
Onset of symptoms is usually 30-60 minutes after ingestion of the fish, although it may be as fast as 5-10 minutes. The initial sensation is that of flushing with a feeling of warmth. Duration of symptoms is around 3 hours but may be longer.
Signs and symptoms include the following:
Facial flushing
Erythematous rash
Burning sensation in the mouth
Palpitations
Tightness in the chest and shortness of breath
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Abdominal cramps
Headache and dizziness
Collapse, due to hypotension
Bronchospasm, swelling of the tongue and throat, and hypotension are complications that occur infrequently.
The severity of symptoms is related to the level of histamine in the fish and can be categorized as follows.
Slight: 8-40 mg histamine
Moderate: > 40 mg histamine
Severe: > 100 mg histamine
The amount of fish consumed also affects symptoms.
It is important to note that scombroid fish poisoning is not an allergic reaction to fish but a reaction to the toxins produced in improperly stored fish. All individuals can be affected by this type of fish poisoning, but those especially susceptible are the elderly and individuals taking isoniazid medication.
Swiss cheese and certain other foods can cause a similar reaction.
Codes
ICD10CM: T61.11XA – Scombroid fish poisoning, accidental, initial encounter
SNOMEDCT: 83227006 – Scombroid fish poisoning
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
Flushing secondary to other food consumption such as cheese (Swiss, Gouda), Chinese salt, soy products, ciguatera fish poisoning, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and wine and other triggers such as hot beverages in people with rosacea
