Girl Bitten by Iguana Becomes First Documented Human to Contract a Deadly Infection

Iguanas are fascinating creatures, but they're not something you'd want to mess with. Lena Mars, a three-year-old child from California, learned this the hard way. Her encounter with a hungry reptile resulted in the first-ever documented case of a rare bacterial infection in humans caused by an iguana bite.

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The Encounter: Lena's Unfortunate Iguana Bite

Lena's family took a trip to Costa Rica, where they encountered many reptiles known for their herbivorous nature. During a snack break on a beautiful beach, a wild iguana appeared and bit Lena's middle finger on her left hand. The wound looked superficial, so the guardians took her to a local clinic where they disinfected it with alcohol and gave her antibiotics.

They can change color to regulate their body temperature. (Image via pexels/Pixabay)

However, five months later, a bump appeared on Lena's hand, and it continued to grow, causing mild pain. Her parents took her to an orthopedist, who suggested a biopsy. Scientists later discovered that Lena had a rare infection called Mycobacterium marinum, which can cause a tuberculosis-like illness in fish.

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The Diagnosis: A Rare Bacterial Infection

Mycobacterium marinum is found in both fresh and saltwater, but it rarely infects humans. Humans usually contract the infection through exposure to the bacteria in water, often through an open wound. Lena's case is surprisingly the first documented instance of a human getting this kind of infection from a bite.

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The Treatment: Antimicrobials and Antibiotics

Mycobacterium marinum is known to be stubborn to treat, but the infection responded well to a combination of rifampin, an antimicrobial, and clarithromycin, an antibiotic used for skin infections. Lena's treatment lasted for several months, but she is recovering well.

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The Warning: Know the Risks

Iguanas may seem harmless, but these reptiles have sharp teeth and can bite if they feel threatened or hungry. If you're traveling to areas where they are common, it's important to be cautious around them.

They are herbivores and mainly eat leaves, flowers, and fruit. (Image via pexels/Pixabay)

If you experience a bite, even if it seems minor, make sure to get it checked by a doctor. Lena's case serves as a cautionary tale to raise awareness about the risks of reptile bites and the potential for rare bacterial infections.

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While iguanas are typically harmless, this case serves as a reminder that they are nonetheless wild animals that can bite and potentially transmit infections to humans. Lena Mars’ experience highlights the importance of seeking medical attention for any unusual symptoms or bites, even if they seem minor at first.

It also underscores the importance of practicing caution and respect around wildlife, especially in areas where they are known to be present. With proper awareness and precautions, we can coexist safely and peacefully with these fascinating creatures.