sea urchin sting /ur″chin/ [AS, sae + herichon, hedgehog] , an injury inflicted by any of a variety of sea urchins in which the skin is punctured and, in some species, venom released. A venomous sting is characterized by pain, muscular weakness, numbness around the mouth, and dyspnea. Immediate removal of the spines is necessary and may require the use of a local anesthetic. An antiseptic and a dressing are applied until the wound is healed. In all cases the broken spines cause local pain and irritation. Infection may result. See also stingray.
