Abstract

Background: Jellyfish stings, though often perceived as benign encounters of the sea, can precipitate severe complications, particularly in the pediatric population engaging in aquatic activities. While these injuries are rare in Saudi Arabia, they can still present as a distressing condition and warrant preparedness.
Case presentation: This case report presents a rare occurrence of cellulitis induced by a jellyfish sting in a 3-year-old boy from Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Following the initial sting, the patient exhibited distressing symptoms, including intense pain, erythema, and pronounced swelling in his left leg. Despite initial medical intervention, his condition worsened, necessitating hospitalization and a comprehensive treatment regimen involving antipyretic, corticosteroid, and antibiotic therapies.
Conclusion: This case report underscores the imperative of timely and efficacious management of jellyfish sting injuries, particularly in regions where such incidents are infrequent. It also advocates for heightened awareness among healthcare practitioners regarding potential complications and the formulation of standardized protocols for optimal patient care.

Key words: Jellyfish sting, cellulitis, children, Jazan, King Fahd Central Hospital, case report.